Epiphany by Guy de Maupassant (1884)
The story revolves around a young man who has an epiphanic moment when he realizes that his life is meaningless and that the people around him are also searching for meaning in their own ways. He observes how everyone is trying to find happiness, but ultimately failing, as they are all trapped in their own selfish desires. The protagonist's realization leads him to a sense of despair and hopelessness, as he understands that true fulfillment is unattainable. The narrative explores the themes of existentialism, nihilism, and the search for meaning in life, highlighting the absurdity and futility of human existence.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1884 · Genre: War Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama · 5,345 words
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Epiphany is listed on Textopian as a novella by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1884 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1884 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama, Comedy, Tragedy
- Length: 5,345 words
- Structure: 1 section, 102 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Epiphany by Guy de Maupassant
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Epiphany?
- How does this novella by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does War Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- War Fiction — The story is set during a war, involving soldiers and military operations, which are central to the plot.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative takes place in a historical context, specifically during a war, reflecting the period's social and cultural aspects.
- Drama — The story contains dramatic elements, including tension, conflict, and emotional interactions among characters.
- Comedy — There are comedic elements in the interactions and situations, particularly in the soldiers' attempts to entertain themselves.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Realism · Short Story · French Literature · 19th Century · Existential Crisis · Philosophical Themes · Human Nature · Social Commentary · Moral Ambiguity · Inner Turmoil · Despair