Question

The fact that Ambrose Bierce actually fought in the Civil War has what impact on his writing in "The Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge"? A. The fact gives the author's writing a creative flair. B. The fact causes the reader to question whether or not the story is actually a nonfiction account. C. The fact gives the author's writing authenticity. D. The fact influenced the author's use of the surprise ending.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The fact causes the reader to question whether or not the story is actually a nonfiction account.

Explanation:

Ambrose Bierce's "The Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" is a short story that tells the story of a convicted, death row captive Peyton Farquhar and his "imagination where he escaped his hanging". The story fluctuates between reality and imaginary, with the readers confused between the two at times.

Added to the fact that the story seems realistic enough to be deemed or accepted a mere story, Ambrose Bierce actually fought in the Civil War. This adds more claim to the idea that maybe his short story is from his own war experience. The fact that he participated in the Civil War is enough to cause the readers to question whether his writing and real-life experience has anything to do with each other.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.