The Quest for Heroism in An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge

The Quest for Heroism in An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge In An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge, Ambrose Bierce portrays the tragic end of the life of the main character, Peyton Farquhar. Paradoxically, Farquhar strives for recognition as a hero, but dies dishonorably. During the Civil War, Farquhar is denied acceptance into the Confederate Army. Still wanting to be a hero, he is caught attempting to burn Owl Creek Bridge. Ironically, he is hanged …

…desires get carried away, the possibility for the worst can happen. Ambrose Bierce uses setting, characterization, and conflict to support this theme in An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge. Through the experience of Peyton Farquhar's story, readers can gain a new perspective on how significant our impulses can be. People can learn to take action while keeping in mind what the impact of their actions might be and how they will affect themselves and others.