The Jilting of Granny Weatherall

“The Jilting of Granny Weatherall” by Katherine Anne Porter is a short story that delves into the complex inner world of its protagonist, Granny Weatherall, as she reflects on her life and impending death. Written during the Modernist period, the story employs many literary devices common to that era, which attempted to lean away from traditional literature written at the time. The narrative explores themes of denial, religious faith, and mortality while using stream of consciousness, symbolism, and imagery to enhance those themes.

The story opens with 80-year-old Granny Weatherall lying on her deathbed. As the narrative unfolds, the reader gains insight into Granny’s internal monologue. This narrative technique allows the reader to intimately experience Granny’s thoughts and emotions, providing a deeper understanding of her character and the complexities of her life. Her memories convey the key life events that have shaped her character. Readers learn that Granny’s jilting at the altar 60 years earlier remains an unresolved trauma. It also emerges that her daughter Hapsy died, most likely in childbirth.