Vietnam: What are the sample essays on analysis of a story in the 8th-grade Literature curriculum? Which stories can be included in the 8th-grade Literature curriculum?

Sample essays on analysis of a story in the 8th-grade Literature curriculum

The story "The Last Leaf" by writer O. Henry is a touching tale about friendship, sacrifice, and the power of hope. The story takes place in a poor neighborhood in New York, where two artist girls, Sue and Johnsy, live in a small apartment. Johnsy suffers from pneumonia and gradually loses her will to live. She believes that when the last leaf on the ivy vine falls, she will also die.

The friendship between Sue and Johnsy is deeply shown through Sue's worries and care for Johnsy. Sue is not only a friend but also a source of encouragement, always trying to rekindle hope for Johnsy. However, Johnsy’s pessimism makes Sue feel helpless. The climax of the story is the appearance of Old Behrman, an old painter living in the same neighborhood. He always dreams of painting a masterpiece but never achieves it.

Upon knowing Johnsy's condition, Old Behrman decides to act. On a stormy night, he paints a leaf on the wall, making Johnsy believe that the leaf is still alive. This act is not only Behrman's sacrifice but also a symbol of courage and love. Seeing the leaf still there, Johnsy regains her will to live, and her health gradually improves. However, Old Behrman has to pay for his noble deed with his own life.

The story closes with the image of the last leaf, not only as a symbol of life but also as evidence of the strength of friendship and sacrifice. O. Henry skillfully weaves in a message about the value of life and perseverance during difficult moments. "The Last Leaf" is not only a touching story but also a valuable lesson about humanity and the power of hope.

Analysis of "Lão Hạc" by Nam Cao

The story "Lão Hạc" by Nam Cao is a realistic depiction of the harsh life and human kindness in pre-revolution Vietnam. The character Lao Hac, a poor farmer, lives alone in a small house with his dog Vang, embodying the image of a laborious farmer enduring many losses and sorrows. Lao Hac once lived a peaceful life with his wife and son, but after his wife passed away and his son moved away for work, he is left alone with memories and loneliness.

Lao Hac's life is intertwined with hardship. He depends on a small plot of land, but when he can no longer cultivate it, he becomes desperate. His love for his dog Vang is special in the story. Vang is not just a pet but a companion, the only solace for Lao Hac in his lonely times. When Vang is sick, Lao Hac is heartbroken, showing the deep bond between human and animal.

Eventually, Lao Hac decides to sell Vang to buy medicine and sustain his life. However, he cannot bring himself to do it. His sacrifice reflects his pride and boundless affection. He doesn't want Vang to suffer and chooses death to liberate both. The image of Lao Hac in his final moments, as he closes his eyes beside Vang, symbolizes love, sacrifice, and solitude.

The story "Lão Hạc" not only reflects social realities but also deeply portrays the emotions and thoughts of the farmer. Nam Cao cleverly weaves in humanistic values, expressing the sentiments of the poor laborers in a challenging society. Through Lao Hac, the author sends a message about human compassion, dignity, and the nobility of love in the harshest circumstances. "Lão Hạc" is truly a work rich in humanistic values, leaving a profound impression on readers.

Analysis of "Chiếc lược ngà" by Nguyen Quang Sang

The story "Chiếc lược ngà" by writer Nguyen Quang Sang is a poignant tale about the father-child relationship and the pain of war. The main character, Mr. Sau, is a soldier during the Vietnam War. After many years apart, he returns to visit his daughter, little Thu, but things are not the same. Mr. Sau endures the longing for his child, the pain of loss in war, and cherished family memories.

Upon his return, little Thu, still young, has matured thoughts. She doesn’t immediately recognize him because of the difference between the father in her mind and reality. This creates an emotional gap between the father and daughter. However, Mr. Sau's fierce love for little Thu helps them gradually bridge this gap. He tries to talk, share, and make her understand that he always loves and misses her.

The ivory comb becomes a symbol of the sacred father-child bond. Mr. Sau saves up to buy the ivory comb for Thu, showing his care and love for his daughter. The comb is not just a material gift but holds memories, feelings, and the father's dreams. When little Thu receives the comb, she feels her father's boundless love, and the distance between them narrows.

However, life holds more than happy moments. War once again robs Mr. Sau’s family of happiness. As he returns to the battlefield, the worry about his fate weighs on little Thu's mind. The image of Mr. Sau leaving with the ivory comb in hand, full of thoughts and concern for his daughter, leaves a profound impression on readers.

The story "Chiếc lược ngà" is not merely about the father-child relationship but also a realistic picture of the pain and loss in war. Nguyen Quang Sang skillfully weaves in humanistic values, showcasing love, sacrifice, and human resilience in difficult circumstances. Through Mr. Sau, the author conveys a message about the power of family love, connection, and the will to overcome challenges. "Chiếc lược ngà" is truly a moving work, leaving readers with deep reflections on life and humanity.