Final answer:
In various pieces of literature, letters sent by characters serve as plot devices that carry significant news, often impacting the characters' lives and advancing the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The letters sent in various literary works often contain pivotal news that significantly affects the lives and decisions of the characters involved. For instance, when Victor’s father sends a letter, it could be informing about a tragic death in the family or requesting Victor's return home.
In another context, a letter might reveal a soldier’s death to his beloved or end a romantic relationship that was harming the family's reputation. Such letters are typically used by authors as plot devices to advance the story, introduce conflict, or reveal critical information.
The news delivered through these correspondences moves swiftly, similar to rumors, and carries the potential to alter the course of characters’ lives significantly.