Flannery O'Connor, a master of Southern Gothic literature, frequently employed the grotesque in her stories. The grotesque, in O'Connor's context, refers to the distortion or exaggeration of characters and situations to reveal deeper truths about human nature, often highlighting moral failings or spiritual crises. These characters, frequently physically or psychologically deformed, serve as a vehicle to expose the hidden flaws and hypocrisies within society and to ultimately explore themes of grace and redemption.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Grotesque | A. A literary subgenre that relies on the irrational, absurd, and human alienation. |
| 2. Southern Gothic | B. The use of strangely unusual or abnormal characters or events to create dark humor and satire. |
| 3. Satire | C. The presentation of an exaggerated, distorted, or otherwise altered version of reality. |
| 4. Distortion | D. A style of writing common in the American South that includes supernatural, ironic, or unusual events to examine the values of the Southern culture. |
| 5. Absurdism | E. The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices. |
Match the term to its definition. Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-E, 4-B, 5-A
O'Connor uses _________ characters to reveal _________ truths. These characters are often _________ or psychologically _________. The grotesque serves to expose _________ and explore themes of _________.
Word Bank: moral, distorted, grace, grotesque, hidden, deformed
Answer: O'Connor uses grotesque characters to reveal moral truths. These characters are often distorted or psychologically deformed. The grotesque serves to expose hidden flaws and explore themes of grace.
How does O'Connor's use of the grotesque contribute to the overall meaning and impact of her stories? Provide specific examples from her works to support your answer.
Please log in to post your answer.
Log InEarn 2 Points for answering. If your answer is selected as the best, you'll get +20 Points! π