Short Story

A short story is defined in Encyclopaedia Britannica as a “brief fictional prose narrative that is shorter than a novel and that usually deals with only a few characters. The form encourages economy of setting, concise narrative, and the omission of a complex plot; character is disclosed in action and dramatic encounter but is seldom fully developed. Despite its relatively limited scope, though, a short story is often judged by its ability to provide a “complete” or satisfying treatment of its characters and subject.“ (Hansen).

To be more specific about its length, a short story “is a brief work of fiction, usually ranging from 1,000 to 7,500 words. Unlike novels or epics, which have complex narratives spread over hundreds of pages“ (Deguzman).

Examples:

The first example of a short story is The Fall of the House of Usher, which is aimed at an adult audience. The story is written by Edgar Allan Poe and it “explores an individual's fall into the abyss of insanity“ (Betts). This short story particularly was also adapted into a TV series by Netflix in 2023.

And the second example of a short story is Robert Southey’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears. However, this example is mainly targeted at children. This short story “details the adventures of Goldilocks breaking into a bear family’s house and eating all their porridge. It teaches the importance of respecting other people's property.” (Betts).

Works cited:

Hansen, Arlen J. “Short Story.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 16 Sept. 2024, www.britannica.com/art/short-story.

DeGuzman, Kyle. “Short Stories - the Art of Brevity in Literature.” StudioBinder, 29 Mar. 2024, www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-a-short-story-definition/.

Betts, Jennifer. “Examples of Short Stories for All Ages.” YourDictionary, YOURDICTIONARY, 6 July 2022, www.yourdictionary.com/articles/examples-short-stories-all-ages.

Daniel Čučka, 536775