The Narrative Arc

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Recommended: Historical and cultural influences on literature in 20th century america

From Mark Twain to Amy Tan, American authors have refined the narrative form beyond what the Greeks and subsequent practitioners of the literary form have achieved. One of the most anthologized American narratives--"The Most Dangerous Game"--provides evidence of the American talent for incorporating narrative conventions, multiple conflict types, and language that achieves symbolic purpose. Thus, readers of this Richard classic are given a lesson in perfect narrative form.

Clearly, the author provides evidence of a sinister plot line in the exposition phase of the story. In the beginning of the story the author Richard Edward Connell, Jr. introduces the protagonist character named Rainsford and through the mood of the story there is evidence that can conclude he is going to have trouble on Shipwreck Island. For instance, the shift between the yacht and the jungle setting plays a role in creating this sinister mood. Since Rainsford along with Whitney and the ship’s crew are on a yacht surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the sound of gunshots are heard by Rainsford can imply that he can anticipate trouble. In addition, he falls off the yacht which is surrounded by darkness therefore; his only hope for survival is the island. The island which seems to be inhabitable and the fact that footprints are around suggest that he might get into some kind of trouble on the island. Secondly, the introduction of the Russian antagonist character General Zaroff in a American story set in the 20th century builds up the perception that there is a sinister plot. Especially, since in the 20th century Americans sent 12,000 American troops to Russia to fight on the side of the Czars against the Red Army. Interestingly, the American forces in Russia su...

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...tise in the literary form. As a result, his expertise explains why he received the O. Henry Award in both 1923 and 1924 for his stories "A Friend of Napoleon" and "The Most Dangerous Game". Furthermore, this would explain why this story has never been out of print since its original publication. Moreover, his expertise of flawlessly integrating all the elements can be used as a guide for future authors that would like to achieve success when using the narrative arc.

Works Cited

Gay, Bob. "The Library." The Most Dangerous Game (2007). The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell. Web. 13 Mar. 2012. .

Prince, R.C. "The Russian Revolution." Web log post. Rationalrevolution.net. Rationalrevolution.net, Mar.-Apr. 2003. Web. 12 Mar. 2012. .

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