Tiểu luận Văn học Mỹ

HUE UNIVERSITY
INFORMATICS AND OPEN INSTITUTE
Họ tên: Nguyễn Quang Đức
Mã sinh viên: 7052900492
Ngày sinh: 23/07/1995
AMERICAN LITERATURE 1&2
Part 1. Write a short professional bio data about your profession,
responsibilities, education, interests and current work (no more than 150
words).
Answer:
My name is Nguyen Quang Duc. I am a doctor working at "Department of
Cardiology and Thoracic Surgery" of "Nghe An General Friendship Hospital". I
graduated with a doctor's degree from Thai Binh University of Medicine and
Pharmacy in 2019. My mission is to take care of and treat patients. I am passionate
and responsible for my work. I have received the title of grassroots emulation
fighter in 2022 awarded by Nghe An health department.
My hobby is traveling to discover new lands, but due to work too busy, I can
only go to a few places. In addition, in my free time, I often listen to music or
watch movies to relax

Part 2. Choose one of these questions which are given in the task and answer it
in a 300-words essay
4. What is the significance of the conflict between natural and supernatural
elements in highlighting the themes of “Rip Van Winkle”?
Answer:
The conflict between natural and supernatural elements in "Rip Van Winkle"
serves as a significant tool in highlighting the themes of the story. Written by
Washington Irving, this classic tale explores the consequences of idleness, the
passage of time, and the changes that occur within society. By juxtaposing the
natural world with supernatural elements, Irving invites readers to reflect on the

transformative power of time and the consequences of neglecting one's
responsibilities.
At the beginning of the story, the natural landscape of the Catskill Mountains
provides a serene and tranquil backdrop for Rip Van Winkle's adventures. The
mountains are described as a place of respite, away from the pressures and
expectations of society. They represent the timeless, unchanging nature of the
natural world, contrasting with the dynamic and ever-evolving human realm.
However, as Rip ventures deeper into the mountains, he encounters the
supernatural elements embodied by the mysterious figures playing ninepins. These
figures, who are later revealed to be the spirits of Henry Hudson and his crew, add
an eerie and mystical atmosphere to the story. They represent the supernatural
forces that disrupt Rip's familiar reality and alter the course of his life.
The conflict between the natural and supernatural serves to underscore the theme
of the passage of time. Rip, through his extended sleep, becomes a living relic of
the past, awakening to a world that has dramatically changed during his slumber.
The supernatural forces in the story symbolize the transformative power of time, as
they are responsible for Rip's long sleep and the subsequent societal shifts.
Furthermore, the conflict between natural and supernatural elements highlights the
theme of neglecting one's responsibilities. Rip's choice to escape from his duties as
a husband, father, and community member by retreating into nature reflects his
inclination toward idleness and avoidance of responsibility. The supernatural
intervention in his life acts as a consequence, magnifying the effects of his neglect
and forcing him to confront the changes he has missed.
In conclusion, the conflict between natural and supernatural elements in "Rip Van
Winkle" serves as a powerful device for exploring themes of the passage of time
and neglecting responsibilities. Through the contrast between the timeless natural
world and the disruptive supernatural forces, Washington Irving prompts readers to
reflect on the consequences of idleness, the transformative power of time, and the
importance of actively engaging in one's duties and roles within society. This

conflict underscores the moral lesson embedded in the story and continues to
captivate readers with its timeless relevance.