The Brothers by Selma Lagerlof
The novel revolves around the lives of two brothers, one a successful merchant and the other a poor but honest man. The story explores their contrasting fortunes and the consequences of their choices.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1908 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Realism · 2,561 words
First lines
It is very possible that I am mistaken, but it seems to me that an astonishing number of people die this year. I have a feeling that I cannot go down the street without meeting a hearse. One cannot help thinking about all those who are carried to the churchyard. I always feel as if it were so sad for the dead who have to be buried in towns. I can hear how they moan in their coffins. Some complain that they have not had plumes on the hearse; some count up the wreaths, and are not satisfied; and then there are some who have only been followed by two or three carriages, and who are hurt by it.
What this Textopian page supports
The Brothers is listed on Textopian as a short story by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Realism, Tragedy, Short Story
- Length: 2,561 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Brothers by Selma Lagerlof
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Brothers?
- How does this short story by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores deep themes of life, death, and human relationships, characterized by a reflective and nuanced writing style.
- Philosophical Fiction — It delves into existential questions about mortality and the meaning of life, prompting readers to reflect on their own experiences.
- Realism — The narrative presents a realistic portrayal of rural life and customs surrounding death, emphasizing the social dynamics of the community.
- Tragedy — The themes of loss, suffering, and the burdens of life contribute to a tragic undertone throughout the narrative.
Tags
Coming-of-age · Family drama · Swedish literature · Realism · Psychological insight · Social commentary · Class struggle · Poverty · Rural life · Isolation · Loneliness · Sibling relationships