Final answer:
The author of the letter and the postmaster reach opposite conclusions because of their differing perspectives: one is personal and emotionally charged, the other is bureaucratic and neutral. The concept of conflict shapes the theme in the stories, with a focus on the importance of trusting one's skills and understanding of freedom. Additionally, both narratives may subvert the traditional concept of a hero, depicting the complexity of heroism and human nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author of the letter and the postmaster in the respective stories delineate different conclusions because their perspectives and intentions diverge considerably. The person writing the letter has a personal stake and is emotionally involved, which is often reflective of one party's viewpoint after a conflict. Contrastingly, the postmaster's viewpoint is bureaucratic and detached, aiming to present an official and neutral perspective. These differing standpoints naturally lead to variant conclusions about the same events.
The conflict in the narratives not only enhances the thematic depth but also affects the portrayal of the protagonists. For example, in Mark Twain's anecdote, the theme revolves around the necessity to trust one's own skills and knowledge rather than succumbing to doubt under pressure. This message reinforces the idea that, in the pursuit of maintaining one's composure, one can find a form of freedom from external anxieties.
The hero concept in both stories may be seen as subverted. In one story, the protagonist's supposed self-assurance is undermined by external pressures, while in the other narrative, the cunning and intellect of a character overpowers the authority, challenging traditional hero tropes. Both convey a deeper message about the complexities of human nature and the concept of heroism.