discuss the sotry the blue hotel by stephen crane an example of naturalism?

Answer 1

Stephen Crane's short story "The Blue Hotel" is an excellent example of naturalism in literature. Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, and it seeks to portray life in its most realistic form, highlighting the forces of nature and the environment's impact on human behavior.

In "The Blue Hotel," Crane explores the theme of determinism, which is a central tenet of naturalism. The story is set in a small town in Nebraska, where three strangers come to stay at the Palace Hotel. The owner, Scully, welcomes them warmly, but one of the guests, a cowboy named Johnnie, becomes convinced that the other guest, a Swede named Ole Andreson, is a criminal who is hiding from the law. Johnnie's paranoia escalates until he confronts Ole, and a fight breaks out, which results in Ole's death.

Throughout the story, Crane emphasizes the role of the environment and natural forces in shaping the characters' behavior. The harsh, bleak landscape of Nebraska and the bitter cold weather contribute to the sense of isolation and despair that the characters feel. Moreover, the characters are portrayed as being subject to their instincts and emotions, rather than their rational thinking. For instance, Johnnie's fear and suspicion of Ole are irrational, but they drive him to commit a violent act that he cannot control.

In conclusion, "The Blue Hotel" by Stephen Crane is an excellent example of naturalism in literature. The story portrays life in its most realistic form, highlighting the impact of the environment and natural forces on human behavior. The characters are portrayed as being subject to their instincts and emotions, with their actions being determined by their environment and circumstances. Overall, the story is a powerful commentary on the human condition and the forces that shape our lives.