What are some of the best Flannery O'Connor stories?

'The Life You Save May Be Your Own' is also among the best. It has a rather dark and ironic tone. Mr. Shiftlet, a drifter, comes into the lives of an old woman and her daughter. His actions and the way he manipulates the situation while also being in search of his own salvation make it a fascinating read.

One characteristic is the use of grotesque elements. O'Connor doesn't shy away from showing the ugly and abnormal aspects of life. This serves to shock the reader and make them think more deeply about the nature of sin, grace, and redemption. In many of her stories, there are characters with physical or mental deformities that play important roles in the narrative.

Flannery O'Connor's short stories are known for their unique blend of Southern Gothic elements and profound religious themes. In her best short stories, she often uses grotesque characters to explore the human condition. For example, in 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the encounter between the family and the Misfit is a complex exploration of grace and redemption.

Another great one is 'Good Country People'. In this story, O'Connor explores themes of pride and deception. Hulga, a highly educated but rather cynical woman, is deceived by a Bible salesman. The story shows how people's assumptions and their sense of superiority can lead them into trouble. O'Connor's vivid descriptions of the rural South add to the atmosphere of the story, making it both a study of human nature and a portrait of a particular place and time.

One of the funny Flannery O'Connor stories is 'Good Country People'. The interactions between the characters, especially the con man's attempts to deceive the rather naive yet prideful main female character, have some darkly humorous moments. His false piety and her self - assuredness that is quickly shattered create a comical yet thought - provoking situation.

Flannery O'Connor's best stories often feature complex characters. Her characters are usually flawed and in the midst of some sort of spiritual or moral crisis. For example, in 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the grandmother is a self - centered and judgmental character, yet through the events of the story, deeper aspects of her and the human condition are revealed.

One characteristic is her use of complex and often unlikable characters. In her best stories, these characters are deeply flawed, which makes them very human. For example, in 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the grandmother is self - centered yet her encounter with the Misfit leads to a profound exploration of grace and redemption.

One characteristic is her use of vivid and often grotesque imagery. For example, in many of her stories, she describes characters and situations in a way that is both shocking and thought - provoking. Another is her exploration of religious themes. Her stories often deal with the struggle between good and evil from a religious perspective. Also, her unique Southern setting adds a distinct flavor to the stories, with the cultural and social aspects of the South being an integral part of the narrative.

Many consider 'Wise Blood' to be one of her best novels. It's a complex and darkly humorous work that delves into themes of faith, alienation, and false prophets. The main character, Hazel Motes, is a memorable and tortured soul, and through his journey, O'Connor explores the human condition in a unique and profound way.

Flannery O'Connor's short stories are often known for their exploration of Southern Gothic themes. In her works, she delves deep into the human psyche, especially the darker aspects. Her characters are complex and often flawed, which makes them very relatable in an odd way. For example, in 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the grandmother is a character full of contradictions. She seems pious but is also self - centered. O'Connor uses vivid descriptions and unexpected plot twists to keep the readers engaged.