What is the literary merit in "The Outside" by Susan glaspell?Should is be part of the canon?

I am not really sure and I really need help...

Ah, "The Outside" by Susan Glaspell, a thought-provoking piece indeed! As for its literary merit, I must say it has some "outstanding" qualities. The play explores themes such as isolation, identity, and societal expectations in a unique and engaging way.

However, when it comes to canonization, decisions like that can be quite serious. It's like trying to decide if a clown should be a part of a Shakespearean play. Some might argue that "The Outside" may not be a strong candidate for the traditional literary canon, but perhaps it's perfect for a more avant-garde literary circus!

Ultimately, though, the decision of whether it should be part of the canon rests upon individual perspectives and preferences. So, I encourage you to dive into the play, form your own opinion with an open mind, and let the sound of laughter or applause guide you!

"The Outside" is a play written by Susan Glaspell, an American playwright, actress, and journalist. Published in 1917, it is a one-act play that explores themes of alienation, loneliness, and the oppression of women in early 20th-century society.

In terms of literary merit, "The Outside" has several aspects worth considering.

Firstly, the play delves into the psychological depths of its characters, particularly the protagonist, Mrs. Patrick. As the story progresses, the audience witnesses her internal struggle and isolation, which adds a layer of complexity to her character. Glaspell's exploration of the human psyche and inner turmoil resonates with readers and makes her work thought-provoking.

Secondly, the play challenges societal norms and sheds light on the restrictive gender roles prevalent during that time. Glaspell depicts the oppressive nature of the patriarchy and the consequences it has on the characters. This social commentary makes "The Outside" significant as a piece of literature that addresses important societal issues.

Lastly, Glaspell's use of symbolism and imagery enhances the play's literary merit. Through the representation of a symbolic "outside" world, Glaspell explores the themes of escape and freedom. This symbolic layer adds depth and richness to the overall narrative.

Regarding whether "The Outside" should be part of the literary canon, it ultimately depends on the criteria used to evaluate inclusion. However, many scholars argue that Susan Glaspell's works, including "The Outside," deserve recognition for their exploration of important social issues, character development, and use of literary techniques.

In conclusion, "The Outside" by Susan Glaspell has several elements of literary merit, including its exploration of characters' psychology, its social commentary, and its effective use of symbolism. These factors contribute to its significance as a piece of literature worthy of consideration for inclusion in the canon.

To determine the literary merit of "The Outside" by Susan Glaspell and whether it should be part of the literary canon, a good starting point is to analyze the elements of the story and its reception.

1. Read the story: Begin by reading "The Outside" by Susan Glaspell. Pay attention to the language, themes, characters, plot, and any other literary elements present in the narrative. Take notes on your impressions, important quotes, and any symbolic or thematic connections you observe.

2. Literary analysis: Conduct a literary analysis of the story. Explore the techniques employed by the author, such as the use of symbolism, imagery, metaphor, irony, or characterization. Consider the themes presented and how they are explored throughout the narrative. Analyze the overall structure and style of the story, as well as the effectiveness of its storytelling.

3. Historical and cultural context: Research the historical and cultural context in which "The Outside" was written. Understanding the time period, societal issues, or literary movements that influenced the author can provide insight into the significance and relevance of the work.

4. Scholarly opinions: Consult scholarly sources, such as academic journals or literary critiques, that discuss "The Outside" and its literary merit. Look for evaluations or analyses of the story by experts in the field to gain a broader perspective on its strengths, weaknesses, and contributions to the literary canon.

5. Comparisons and connections: Consider the other works in the literary canon and explore how "The Outside" compares to them. Look for connections between Glaspell's work and other esteemed writers or influential literary movements. Assess whether the story brings something unique or valuable to the literary landscape.

6. Balance of opinions: As you gather different perspectives and evaluations, it is important to consider a range of opinions. Some critics may argue for the inclusion of "The Outside" in the canon based on its thematic depth, unique storytelling, or social relevance. Others may present reservations about its execution or overall impact.

Ultimately, determining the literary merit of "The Outside" and its place in the canon is subjective. It requires carefully evaluating the story on its own merits, exploring its historical context, and considering the opinions of literary scholars. By engaging in this process, you can develop a well-informed perspective on whether you believe the work deserves inclusion in the canon.

This is an opinion question. Only your opinion counts.

Did you read this?
Did you like it?
Did you fully understand it, or did you need to read it more than once?
Do you think the author presents thought-provoking questions and ideas so that future generations will get deep meaning from it?

Etc.

Let us know what you decide.