Often, a short story has a limited setting. It doesn't have the space to sprawl across multiple locations like a novel. For instance, many of Anton Chekhov's short stories are set in a single room or a small village, which helps to intensify the mood and the action within the confined space.
A selfish friend in a short story often shows a lack of consideration for others. For instance, they might hog resources like food or space without thinking about others' needs. They are also likely to be self - centered in conversations, only talking about themselves and their interests.
In the 'Hansel and Gretel' short story, Hansel shows intelligence. He attempts to use pebbles and breadcrumbs to find their way back home. Gretel is courageous. She doesn't panic when facing the witch but instead comes up with a plan to defeat her. The stepmother is heartless. She doesn't care about the children's well - being. The father is a bit of a pushover, not standing up for his children. The witch is a typical villain, being both malevolent and gluttonous for the children's flesh.
Sure. One trait is a focused plot. It doesn't meander like in some longer works. Also, there are usually only a few main characters. And it has a relatively quick pace to keep the reader engaged in a short span.
Overall, the characters in the story represent different aspects of human nature. Margot represents the individual who is different and suffers for it, while the other children represent the mob mentality that can be cruel and thoughtless.
The ant is hard - working. It knows the importance of preparing for the future and spends its time collecting food. The grasshopper is lazy and carefree. It doesn't think about what will happen in the future and just enjoys the present moment.
One common trait is they often try to undermine their friend's achievements. For example, if the friend gets a promotion at work, the envious friend might say it was just because of luck, not hard work. Another trait is they may spread false rumors, like in the story where the envious friend told others untrue things about his friend's new relationship. Also, they can be possessive and not want their friend to have other friends or interests outside of their friendship.
In a modern Cinderella short story, Cinderella is likely to be strong - willed. She has to be, to endure the unfair treatment from her step - family. She is creative, coming up with solutions to her problems in a world full of new challenges. For example, she might use social media or modern technology to get out of a tough situation. Also, she has a sense of self - worth, which makes her stand out and not be crushed by the negative remarks of her step - family.