The stories could depict the moral decay that often comes with a difficult age. Maybe there are characters who have to make tough choices between right and wrong, and the wrong choices seem more appealing in the context of the age of darkness. This can be seen in situations where survival is at stake and characters are pushed to their limits.
I'm not sure exactly who the main characters are without reading the stories. But they could be ordinary people thrust into extraordinary situations in this age of darkness. Maybe a brave young hero trying to save his village, or a wise old sage guiding others through the chaos.
Another theme might be the exploration of human nature. The difficult circumstances in these short stories can bring out the best and worst in people. Some may show great courage and self - sacrifice, while others might turn to selfishness. It's a study of how humans react when pushed to their limits.
The 'Age of Darkness Novel' is likely to be about a period filled with chaos, struggle, and perhaps moral decline. It might involve characters trying to survive or thrive in a world overshadowed by this so - called 'age of darkness'.
Typically, they often feature a dark and foreboding setting. This could be a post - apocalyptic world, a world filled with monsters or a society with a lot of corruption and inequality. For example, in some novels, the cities are in ruins and the survivors have to scavenge for resources.
I'm not sure who the main characters are in the 'Age of Darkness Novel' as I haven't read it. But they could be brave warriors trying to fight against the darkness.
One great coming of age short story is 'The Most Dangerous Game' by Richard Connell. It shows a young man's growth in the face of extreme danger. Another is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, which makes the young protagonist and readers question the traditions they've grown up with. Also, 'A&P' by John Updike is good. It tells about a young store clerk's moment of realization about society and his own place in it.
The darkness motif in Poe's short stories often represents the unknown and the hidden aspects of the human psyche. It creates an atmosphere of mystery and horror. For example, in 'The Fall of the House of Usher', the dark and decaying mansion symbolizes the deteriorating mental state of the characters.
You can start by looking at the themes. If a story deals with growing up, self - discovery, and the challenges faced during youth, it's likely a coming of age story. For example, if it shows a young character learning about love, loss, or friendship. Also, the way the character changes from the beginning to the end is important. If they become more self - aware or mature, it's a sign. For short short stories, look for a concise yet impactful exploration of these elements.