Father, The
by Bjornstjerne Bjornson | Grades 9-12
The Father by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a novella that explores the themes of pride, loss, and existential reflection. Set in a small Norwegian village, the story follows Thord Overaas, a proud and prosperous farmer who experiences a series of personal tragedies, including the death of his only son. Through Thord's journey, Bjørnson skillfully captures the human condition, illustrating how profound grief and suffering can lead to spiritual awakening and deeper understanding of life's true values. This timeless narrative serves as a powerful commentary on the frailty of human aspirations and the redemptive power of humility and acceptance.