E.F. Benson: Short Stories

E.F. Benson Caterpillars

What is the theme of this short story?

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Important themes presented in the story include reality versus illusion (is the protagonist dreaming or awake), metamorphosis (resulting in death), and the supernatural.

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Caterpillars

In "Caterpillars" by E.F. Benson, the theme revolves around the idea of transformation and the passage of time. The story explores how individuals change physically, emotionally, and mentally as they grow older. The caterpillars in the story serve as a metaphor for this transformation, as they undergo a dramatic change from crawling creatures to elegant butterflies. Additionally, the story touches upon the themes of beauty, vanity, and the fleeting nature of youth and beauty.

Source(s)

Benson, E. F. (2022). The Complete Short Stories of EF Benson. DigiCat.