Essay Topics
1.
O. Henry embezzled money while he was working as a bank teller. Afterward, he fled to avoid capture, although he was eventually arrested and convicted. Describe the autobiographical elements in “The Ransom of Red Chief.” What are the similarities between O. Henry and the criminal duo, or O. Henry and Ebenezer Dorset?
2.
Describe the relationship between Johnny and Ebenezer Dorset. How does O. Henry characterize Dorset?
3.
Discuss the ambiguity of Johnny’s role in “The Ransom of Red Chief.” Is he a protagonist or an antagonist? Can a 10-year-old child be evil, or is he a victim of his circumstances?
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Related Titles
By O. Henry
