SHORT STORY (TERM & DEFINITION)

What is a short story?

A short story is a brief work of prose fiction that typically focuses on a single plot, character, or theme

How is a short story designed to be read?

It is designed to be read in one sitting and delivers a complete narrative with concentrated impact

How do short stories differ from novels?

Unlike novels, which may explore multiple storylines, short stories emphasize brevity and unity.

What are the ancient origins of short stories?

They are rooted in oral traditions, myths, legends, and fables, such as Aesop’s Fables.

How did the medieval period contribute to short story development?

Written collections like One Thousand and One Nights and Boccaccio’s Decameron combined entertainment and moral lessons

How did the Renaissance to Enlightenment shape short stories?

The printing press spread shorter prose tales across Europe, influencing writers like Chaucer.

When did the short story become a recognized literary genre?

In the 19th century, with Edgar Allan Poe emphasizing the unity of effect and Anton Chekhov focusing on realism and character

How did the modern era affect the short story?

Short stories flourished in magazines, anthologies, and contemporary literature, valued for their brevity and emotional impact.

What is the full name of Tolstoy and when did he live?

His full name is Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy (1828–1910).

Who was Tolstoy in the context of world literature?

He was a Russian novelist, moral thinker, and social reformer, regarded as one of the greatest writers in world literature.

Where was Tolstoy born?

He was born into an aristocratic family at Yasnaya Polyana, Russia

What happened to Tolstoy’s parents?

He was orphaned at a young age and raised by relatives.

Did Tolstoy complete his formal education?

No. He attended Kazan University but did not finish his studies, choosing self-education instead.

What work first brought Tolstoy recognition?

Childhood, Boyhood, Youth, a semi-autobiographical trilogy.

What experience deeply shaped Tolstoy’s views on life, violence, and morality?

His service in the Crimean War.

What are Tolstoy’s two greatest literary masterpieces?

1. War and Peace (1869), which depicts Russian society during Napoleon’s invasion

2. Anna Karenina (1877), a profound study of love, family, and morality.

Aside from his novels, what other kinds of works did Tolstoy write later in life?

He wrote philosophical tales and short stories, including The Death of Ivan Ilyich and The Three Hermits.

What makes The Three Hermits special as a story?

It is a prose rare, perfectly formed tale told in a simple and charming narrative style that reveals the most profound truths.

What attitude toward religion did Tolstoy convey in this story?

The tale expressed Tolstoy’s loathing of organized religion.

What vision of salvation did Tolstoy highlight in the story?

He conveyed his divine vision for human salvation, focusing on direct spirituality rather than institutional religion.

Why did Tolstoy write didactic literature like The Three Hermits?

Because he was a deeply spiritual man who believed it was his duty to educate and enlighten his readers with a moralistic attitude toward life.