Analysis

The analysis of the short story “Butterflies” by Patricia Grace shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The action takes place in a single day, and there are no flashbacks.

The main character in the story is the granddaughter. She experiences a conflict between what she learns from her grandparents as part of her daily life and what she is taught at school.

The physical setting is a house somewhere in the countryside. The exact location and time setting are deliberately vague, to illustrate the universal nature of these events. However, given the author’s Maori origins, it is likely that the action takes place in New Zealand. The social setting explores class differences.

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator. The narrator has the perspective of a witness to the events and does not have access to the characters’ thoughts and feelings.

The language is casual and conversational, using common words and phrases. The story is told mainly through dialogue, which gives it a dynamic feel.

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.