Question

What did Ambrose Bierce and Stephen Crane bring to American fiction that was lacking in other Civil War stories of the same time period?

1) A great reliance on Romantic elements such as the idealization of nature and the common man.
2) Fewer stories about individual people and more stories of groups of soldiers and officers.
3) Sarcasm and bitterness that was a more accurate reflection of Americans' views on war.
4) More artfully written stories that used literary elements to dramatic effect.

Answer 1

Ambrose Bierce and Stephen Crane brought a new level of realism and naturalism to American fiction, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of the Civil War that contrasted with the idealized narratives of the time.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ambrose Bierce and Stephen Crane contributed to American fiction during the Civil War period by adding a layer of realism and naturalism that was distinctly different from the romanticized narratives of their predecessors. Unlike the romantic emphasis on idealizing nature and heroism, Bierce's and Crane's works incorporated elements of cynicism, graphic details, and psychological complexity to depict the harsh realities of war and the struggle for survival. Ambrose Bierce, known for his sardonic wit and dark view of human nature, often infused his Civil War stories with a realism that unveiled the brutality and trauma of war. His works sometimes veer into the surreal, reflecting the subjective experiences of individuals in traumatic situations. On the other hand, Stephen Crane, despite dying young, left an indelible mark on American literature through works like 'The Red Badge of Courage' that explored the psychological aspects of war.