Presented by Shirley Jackson, the short story “The Possibility of Evil” reflects many different aspects of literary movements through history. However, through representations of violence, and extensive imagery about the setting, the purpose of the story is best understood through the movement of Southern Gothicism.
Jackson beings the story emphasizing the intense beauty of the setting. With the “bright sunlight” (Page 2; line 54) and “fragrant summer day” (1;5), allows the reader to infer: Jackson is embellishing the beauty of the setting and allowing a sense that the scene is immaculate. Using the land to contrast against conflict is a notorious way to assert southern gothicism, and help the reader fully understand the purpose of the “A …show more content…
Roses within the story exemplify the deceptiveness of Miss Strangeworth’s outward appearance. Miss Strangeworth expresses many times throughout the story, she “never gave away her roses” (1;16) and “they belonged on Pleasant Street” (1;17) even though tourist asked her for them. The protection of the roses grants the reader to infer the idea of outsiders have an inkling of her “dainty walk” (5;179) being a dissimulation.
Furthermore, Shirley Jackson presents the reader with symbolism of roses “scenting the room”. The roses, representing the deceit of Miss Strangeworth’s actions, confirms elements of betrayal are implemented in the story to help convey Southern Gothicism literary practices. Thus, facilitating the reader to obtain a better understanding of the plot.
In closing, Jackson leaves the reader with one last thought, Miss Strangeworth is crying out “for the wickedness of the world” when her roses were “destroyed”. (6;226) This exposure when one of her disgruntling letters was found, represents familiar Southern Gothic writing characteristics of betrayal and
Jackson beings the story emphasizing the intense beauty of the setting. With the “bright sunlight” (Page 2; line 54) and “fragrant summer day” (1;5), allows the reader to infer: Jackson is embellishing the beauty of the setting and allowing a sense that the scene is immaculate. Using the land to contrast against conflict is a notorious way to assert southern gothicism, and help the reader fully understand the purpose of the “A …show more content…
Roses within the story exemplify the deceptiveness of Miss Strangeworth’s outward appearance. Miss Strangeworth expresses many times throughout the story, she “never gave away her roses” (1;16) and “they belonged on Pleasant Street” (1;17) even though tourist asked her for them. The protection of the roses grants the reader to infer the idea of outsiders have an inkling of her “dainty walk” (5;179) being a dissimulation.
Furthermore, Shirley Jackson presents the reader with symbolism of roses “scenting the room”. The roses, representing the deceit of Miss Strangeworth’s actions, confirms elements of betrayal are implemented in the story to help convey Southern Gothicism literary practices. Thus, facilitating the reader to obtain a better understanding of the plot.
In closing, Jackson leaves the reader with one last thought, Miss Strangeworth is crying out “for the wickedness of the world” when her roses were “destroyed”. (6;226) This exposure when one of her disgruntling letters was found, represents familiar Southern Gothic writing characteristics of betrayal and