COMPARISON BETWEEN THEMES IN O’HENRY AND CATHERINE MANSFIELD’S SHORT STORIES.

Abstract

This thesis explores the thematic similarities and differences between the short stories of O’Henry and Katherine Mansfield, two renowned authors known for their distinctive narrative styles and exploration of human emotions. By analyzing key works from both authors, the study highlights how they address common themes such as irony, human vulnerability, social class, and the complexity of relationships. O’Henry, known for his surprise endings and focus on urban life, often emphasizes the contrast between appearances and reality, using irony to reveal deeper truths about human nature. In contrast, Mansfield, through her modernist approach, delves into the inner lives of her characters, focusing on moments of epiphany and the emotional undercurrents in seemingly mundane interactions. This thesis examines how both authors portray the human condition, the impact of societal expectations, and the role of fate and chance in shaping individual lives. Through comparative analysis, this study aims to shed light on the unique narrative techniques and thematic preoccupations of O’Henry and Mansfield, ultimately revealing how their short stories reflect a shared understanding of life’s unpredictability and the complexity of human experience.