Final answer:
White's use of scene, character, and dialogue in 'Afternoon of an American Boy' can be analyzed by comparing with the literary techniques in 'A White Heron' and other texts. Through detailed descriptions (local color), internal perspectives (point of view), and lifelike conversations (dialogue), White crafts a narrative that is authentic and relatable with well-developed characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
While discussing White's use of scene, character, and dialogue in “Afternoon of an American Boy,” it is essential to consider how these elements contribute to the overall narrative and themes of the text. For example, in “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett, White's approach can be compared to the way Jewett uses local color, dialect, and detailed descriptions to create a vivid sense of place and character. Elwyn may be characterized akin to Sylvy, exploring his thoughts and complexities through a consistent point of view, allowing readers to gain insight into his internal dilemmas. Similarly, Eileen's characterization may involve her personal traits and interactions with Elwyn, providing depth to her character through realistic dialogue and actions.
Local color, regionalism, and realism often work together to depict characters and settings in a way that feels authentic and grounded in a particular place or time. For instance, White may create the scene by describing the environment in detail, utilizing sensory language, and capturing the essence of a particular setting, just as Jewett describes the New England landscape. Furthermore, dialogue is a tool for advancing the plot and defining conflict, as well as for creating authenticity in the narrative. This can be seen across various literary texts, where speech patterns and vernacular are used to bring characters to life and make interactions between them feel genuine.