“The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

“The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro’s (pen name Saki) likely appeared in a short story collection published around 1919. The narrative unfolds in a context of simmering hereditary conflict, with two families locked in a bitter struggle over land. Saki employs a masterful third-person omniscient perspective, creating a suspenseful atmosphere within the isolated forest setting. The story showcases his signature dark wit, laced with irony and a touch of the macabre. Through this exploration of an age-old feud, “The Interlopers” compels readers to contemplate the destructive nature of animosity and the potential for reconciliation, even under extraordinary circumstances.

Main Events in “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

Main Events of “The Interlopers”

1. Introduction of Ulrich von Gradwitz and Georg Znaeym:

– Ulrich and Georg are sworn enemies due to a longstanding feud over a disputed forest territory.

2. Background of the Feud:

– The feud dates back generations, fueled by poaching and legal disputes over land ownership.

3. Ulrich patrols the forest to catch trespassers:

– Ulrich, armed and accompanied by his foresters, hunts for trespassers in the forest.

– He hopes to catch Georg, whom he suspects of poaching on his land.

4. Ulrich encounters Georg in the forest:

– Ulrich confronts Georg in the forest, both armed and filled with hatred for each other.

– They stand face to face, each with a rifle and murder in their hearts.

5. Nature’s intervention: A fallen beech tree traps both men:

– Before they can act on their hostility, a massive beech tree falls, trapping them underneath.

– Ulrich’s and Georg’s legs are pinned beneath the fallen mass, leaving them helpless.

6. Exchange of insults and threats between Ulrich and Georg:

– Despite their dire situation, Ulrich and Georg continue to exchange insults and threats.

– They mock each other’s misfortune and express satisfaction at the other’s predicament.

7. Both men resign to their fate and suffer together:

– As they struggle against the branches, both men realize the futility of their animosity.

– They experience a mix of relief at being alive and frustration at their predicament.

8. Ulrich offers wine to Georg, suggesting a truce:

– Ulrich offers his wine flask to Georg, indicating a willingness to reconcile.

– This gesture marks a shift in Ulrich’s attitude towards Georg and the feud.

9. Georg accepts the offer and proposes friendship:

– Despite initial hesitation, Georg accepts the wine and expresses a desire for peace.

– He suggests ending the feud and becoming friends, surprising Ulrich with his willingness.

10. Both men contemplate the possibility of reconciliation:

– Ulrich and Georg reflect on the potential benefits of ending their feud and forging a friendship.

– They envision a future where they can coexist peacefully and put an end to the cycle of hatred.

11. They shout for help but receive no response:

– Hoping for rescue, Ulrich and Georg shout for help, but their voices are drowned out by the wind.

– They anxiously await rescue, hoping that their respective parties will come to their aid.

12. Ulrich spots figures approaching, presumed to be their rescue party:

– Ulrich sees figures approaching through the forest and believes it to be his rescue party.

– Both men rejoice at the prospect of being freed from their predicament.

13. Joy turns to horror as they realize the approaching figures are wolves:

– Their relief turns to terror as they realize the figures are not their rescuers but a pack of wolves.

– The story ends with the impending threat of the wolves, leaving the fate of Ulrich and Georg uncertain.

Literary Devices in “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

1. Simile: “The roebuck, which usually kept in the sheltered hollows during a storm-wind, were running like driven things to-night” (paragraph 2). This compares the frantic behavior of the roebuck to that of things being driven.
2. Personification: “A fierce shriek of the storm had been answered by a splitting crash over their heads” (paragraph 4). This assigns human-like actions (shrieking, answering) to non-human things (storm, crash).
3. Foreshadowing: “Assuredly there was a disturbing element in the forest, and Ulrich could guess the quarter from whence it came” (paragraph 2). This subtly hints at Georg’s presence before he is directly mentioned.
4. Irony (Situational): Ulrich offers Georg his wine flask, an act of kindness to his enemy (paragraph 16). The irony lies in the fact that they are sworn enemies.
5. Irony (Verbal): “It is a useful hint,” said Ulrich fiercely (paragraph 11). Ulrich says the opposite of what he means, using sarcasm towards Georg.
6. Juxtaposition: “They lay and waited for the help that would now bring release and succour to both parties” (paragraph 22). This places two contrasting ideas together: being released and needing help.
7. Allusion: The story’s title, “The Interlopers,” refers to someone who intrudes where they are not welcome. Here, it can refer to both Georg (poaching) and the wolves (attacking the men).
8. Metaphor: “The feud might, perhaps, have died down or been compromised” (paragraph 2). A feud is not a living thing, but comparing it to something that can die suggests its intensity.
9. Metonymy: “Ulrich von Gradwitz patrolled the dark forest in quest of a human enemy” (paragraph 1). “Human enemy” stands in for Georg Znaeym, using a part (human enemy) to represent the whole (Georg).
10. Symbolism: The fallen beech tree can symbolize the burden of their long-standing feud that has now trapped them both.
11. Suspense: The story builds suspense by leaving the reader wondering which men will arrive first and what fate awaits Ulrich and Georg (paragraph 22 onwards).
12. Conflict (Man vs. Man): The central conflict is the feud between Ulrich and Georg, which has lasted for generations (paragraph 2).
13. Conflict (Man vs. Nature): After being trapped, both men must contend with the harsh elements and the threat of wolves (paragraph 22 onwards).
14. Characterization (Direct): “Ulrich could guess the quarter from whence it came” (paragraph 2). This tells us that Ulrich is observant and familiar with the forest.
15. Characterization (Indirect): “Ulrich was silent for a few minutes, and lay listening to the weary screeching of the wind. An idea was slowly forming and growing in his brain” (paragraph 18). This passage shows Ulrich’s contemplative nature and the development of his newfound empathy for Georg.
16. Hyperbole: “They won’t carry far through the trees and undergrowth” (paragraph 26). It’s an exaggeration to say their voices will not carry “far” at all through the trees.
17. Understatement: “There are better things in life than getting the better of a boundary dispute” (paragraph 19). Ulrich downplays the significance of their long feud.
18. Imagery: The story uses vivid descriptions to create a dark and suspenseful atmosphere. For instance, “the wind tearing in fitful gusts through the naked branches and whistling round the tree-trunks” (paragraph 22).
19. Foreshadowing (continued): The unsettling behavior of the animals earlier in the story foreshadows the danger that awaits Ulrich and Georg (paragraph 2).
20. Theme: The story explores the theme of reconciliation and the possibility of overcoming long-held animosity.

Characterization in “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

Major Characters:

• Ulrich von Gradwitz:
  • Introduced as a wealthy landowner engaged in a long-standing feud with the Znaeym family.
  • Displays deep-seated animosity towards Georg Znaeym, wishing ill upon him.
  • Initially determined to catch trespassers on his land, reflecting his commitment to upholding his family’s territorial rights.
  • Shows a willingness to reconcile and seek friendship with Georg after their shared ordeal under the fallen tree.
  • Example: Ulrich’s change of heart is evident when he offers wine to Georg and suggests a truce, indicating a shift from hostility to potential reconciliation.
• Georg Znaeym:
  • Portrayed as the inheritor of the feud with the von Gradwitz family, equally resentful towards Ulrich.
  • Described as a relentless poacher and raider of the disputed forest border.
  • Initially responds to Ulrich’s offer of friendship with skepticism but eventually accepts, signaling a desire for peace.
  • Example: Georg’s acceptance of Ulrich’s offer of wine and proposal of friendship marks a significant departure from their longstanding enmity.

Minor Characters:

• Foresters:
  • Mentioned as accompanying Ulrich on his patrol of the forest.
  • Reflect Ulrich’s determination to protect his territory and catch trespassers.
  • Example: They are deployed strategically by Ulrich to keep watch for poachers, emphasizing the seriousness of the feud and the measures taken to defend the family’s land.
• Wolves:
  • While not directly characterized, their presence symbolizes the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the forest.
  • Serve as a final, unexpected threat that further complicates the already tense situation between Ulrich and Georg.
  • Example: The appearance of the wolves at the end of the story introduces a new element of peril, highlighting the precariousness of the characters’ circumstances and the uncertainty of their fate.

Major Themes in “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

• The Destructiveness of Feuds: The storyを中心に (chūshin ni : core) focuses on the bitter, generations-old feud between Ulrich von Gradwitz and Georg Znaeym. This conflict has poisoned their lives, driven them to violence, and ultimately landed them both trapped and helpless. Through their predicament, the story argues that such animosity is destructive and ultimately futile.
• The Power of Reconciliation: Despite their ingrained hatred, both Ulrich and Georg experience a shift in perspective while trapped together. The shared vulnerability and facing a common threat (the wolves) paves the way for a possible reconciliation. Their decision to end the feud and become friends highlights the potential for understanding and peace, even in the most hostile situations.
• The Significance of Nature: The unforgiving winter forest serves as a symbolic backdrop for the conflict. The harsh elements and dangerous wildlife constantly threaten both men, reminding them of their dependence on forces beyond their control. Nature acts as a neutral force, indifferent to their feud, and ultimately imposes a new reality that necessitates cooperation.
• Irony and the Unexpected: The story is filled with ironic twists and turns. Enemies are trapped together, a flask of wine is offered between sworn foes, and their rescuers turn out to be a danger greater than each other. These ironies highlight the absurdity of their feud and the unpredictable nature of life, which can bring unexpected turns of fate and force change upon us.

Writing Style in “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

1. Dark Humor:
   • Munro infuses the narrative with dark wit, often using irony and sarcasm to underscore the absurdity of human conflict and folly.
   • Example: The bitter exchanges between Ulrich and Georg, filled with insults and threats, reveal the irony of their situation as they lie trapped under a fallen tree, still consumed by their feud.
2. Rich Description:
   • Munro vividly describes the forest setting, creating an atmospheric backdrop that adds depth to the story’s tone and themes.
   • Example: Descriptions of the “wild tangle of undergrowth” and the “cold, gloomy forest” evoke a sense of foreboding and isolation, heightening the tension of the narrative.
3. Character Psychology:
   • Munro delves into the inner thoughts and motivations of the characters, exploring their complex emotions and moral dilemmas.
   • Example: The internal conflicts experienced by Ulrich and Georg as they grapple with their animosity and contemplate reconciliation provide insight into their psychological depth and development.
4. Suspenseful Pacing:
   • Munro skillfully builds tension throughout the story, using suspenseful elements to keep the reader engaged.
   • Example: The gradual escalation of the characters’ predicament, from their initial confrontation to the revelation of the approaching wolves, creates a sense of anticipation and unease.
5. Economical Language:
   • Munro’s prose is marked by its precision and economy of language, conveying meaning with brevity and clarity.
   • Example: The dialogue between Ulrich and Georg is terse yet potent, revealing the depth of their mutual enmity and, later, their tentative reconciliation.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Examples	Critique
Psychoanalytic Theory	The story can be interpreted as a manifestation of Freudian concepts, particularly the id, ego, and superego. Ulrich and Georg represent the conflicting aspects of human nature, with their animosity stemming from primal instincts and societal conditioning. The resolution of their feud reflects a reconciliation of inner conflicts and a transcendence of base desires.	Example: Ulrich and Georg’s initial hostility and desire for revenge can be seen as expressions of the id, while their eventual willingness to reconcile represents a triumph of the superego.	Critics may argue that while the story offers insights into human psychology, its portrayal of characters and their motivations may oversimplify complex psychological dynamics.
Marxist Criticism	“The Interlopers” can be interpreted through a Marxist lens, focusing on themes of class conflict, property rights, and the struggle for power. The feud between Ulrich and Georg reflects broader social tensions and inequalities, with the forest serving as a metaphor for the contested terrain of capitalism. The story highlights the destructive consequences of greed and possessiveness.	Example: The feud between the von Gradwitz and Znaeym families over land ownership mirrors historical struggles between landowners and peasants.	Critics may argue that while the story addresses socioeconomic themes, its narrow focus on individual characters may overlook broader systemic issues inherent in capitalist societies.
Feminist Criticism	From a feminist perspective, “The Interlopers” may be critiqued for its limited portrayal of female characters and their marginalization within the narrative. The story primarily revolves around male protagonists engaged in a cycle of violence and dominance, with little consideration for female perspectives or agency.	Example: The absence of female characters and their voices in the story reinforces traditional gender roles and stereotypes, perpetuating a patriarchal worldview.	Critics may argue that the story’s emphasis on male rivalry and reconciliation overlooks the experiences and contributions of women, reflecting broader gender biases prevalent in society and literature.
Ecocriticism	Ecocriticism can explore the story’s depiction of nature as both a setting and a force that shapes human behavior and relationships. “The Interlopers” portrays the forest as a symbolic space where human conflicts play out against the backdrop of the natural world. The fallen tree that traps Ulrich and Georg represents nature’s indifference to human struggles and the consequences of environmental degradation.	Example: The destructive power of the storm and the wolves highlights humanity’s vulnerability in the face of natural forces, suggesting a need for humility and respect for the environment.	Critics may argue that while the story acknowledges humanity’s dependence on nature, its portrayal of the forest and its inhabitants may romanticize or oversimplify ecological dynamics.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
Destructiveness of Feud	How does the story portray the negative consequences of the feud between Ulrich and Georg?	The generations-old feud between Ulrich von Gradwitz and Georg Znaeym brings nothing but suffering and destruction, ultimately trapping them both in a situation where their animosity becomes irrelevant.
Power of Reconciliation	What events lead Ulrich and Georg to reconsider their feud?	Despite a history of hatred, Ulrich and Georg’s shared vulnerability and the threat of a common enemy create an opportunity for empathy and reconciliation, offering a chance to break free from the cycle of violence.
Role of Nature	How does the natural world influence the characters and the conflict in the story?	The unforgiving winter forest acts as a powerful symbol, reminding Ulrich and Georg of their insignificance in the grand scheme of nature and ultimately pushing them towards cooperation in the face of a shared threat.
Irony and Symbolism	What symbolic elements and ironic situations does the story employ to convey its themes?	Through the use of symbolism, such as the fallen beech tree, and ironic situations, like offering wine to an enemy, the story highlights the absurdity of the feud and the potential for unexpected change that can lead to reconciliation.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

1. What is the central conflict in “The Interlopers”?
   • The central conflict in “The Interlopers” revolves around the longstanding feud between Ulrich von Gradwitz and Georg Znaeym over land ownership. This feud, passed down through generations, is fueled by rivalry, resentment, and a sense of entitlement to the forest territory. For example, Ulrich patrols the forest to catch Georg trespassing, reflecting the ongoing hostility between the two families.
2. How does nature contribute to the story’s tension?
   • Nature plays a significant role in heightening the tension and adding a sense of urgency to the narrative. The stormy weather and dense forest setting create a foreboding atmosphere, amplifying the characters’ feelings of isolation and vulnerability. For instance, the falling beech tree that traps Ulrich and Georg represents nature’s unpredictability and its ability to disrupt human conflicts, ultimately forcing the enemies to confront their mortality together.
3. What is the significance of the characters’ reconciliation attempt?
   • The characters’ reconciliation attempt signifies a moment of introspection and potential redemption amidst the chaos and hostility of their feud. When faced with the prospect of death under the fallen tree, Ulrich and Georg set aside their animosity and contemplate the possibility of ending their long-standing conflict. This shift is exemplified when Ulrich offers wine to Georg as a gesture of peace, demonstrating a willingness to move beyond their bitter rivalry.
4. How does the story’s ending contribute to its impact?
   • The story’s ending adds a final twist that underscores the futility of human conflicts and the arbitrary nature of fate. Just as Ulrich and Georg anticipate rescue, they discover that the approaching figures are not their rescuers but a pack of wolves. This unexpected turn of events highlights the transience of human concerns in the face of larger, uncontrollable forces, leaving the fate of the characters uncertain and the reader with a sense of irony and inevitability.

Literary Works Similar to “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

1. “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant This short story, like “The Interlopers,” explores the ironies of fate and the high cost of materialism. Both works feature characters who experience a sudden turn of events that challenges their priorities.
2. “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry This heartwarming story, similar to “The Interlopers,” features characters who learn a valuable lesson about what truly matters. While “The Interlopers” explores the destructive nature of hatred, “The Gift of the Magi” focuses on the power of love and sacrifice.
3. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson This unsettling story, like “The Interlopers,” builds suspense and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Both works explore the concept of tradition and its potential for darkness.
4. “Ransom of Red Chief” by O. Henry This humorous story, like “The Interlopers,” features ironic situations and unexpected turns of events. While “The Interlopers” focuses on reconciliation, “Ransom of Red Chief” explores the themes of greed and its consequences.
5. “The Pardoner’s Tale” by Geoffrey Chaucer This thought-provoking story, similar to “The Interlopers,” features characters who grapple with complex moral issues. Both works explore themes of human nature, including greed, hypocrisy, and the concept of justice.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

1. Books:
   1. Munro, Hector Hugh. The Complete Saki. Penguin, 1998. This collection includes “The Interlopers” along with other short stories by Saki, providing a comprehensive overview of his works and themes.
2. “Saki: A Life of Hector Hugh Munro” by A.J. Langguth: This biography offers insights into the life and literary contributions of H.H. Munro, providing context for understanding “The Interlopers” and its significance.
3. Articles:
4. Korb, Rena. “Critical Essay on” The Interlopers”.” Short Stories for Students 15 (2001). This article discusses the themes and style of Saki’s short stories, including “The Interlopers,” and their enduring appeal.
5. Lane, Christopher. “The Unrest Cure According to Lawrence, Saki, and Lewis.” Modernism/modernity 11.4 (2004): 769-796.
6. Website Links:

3. https://americanliterature.com/author/hh-munro-saki
4. https://short-stories.co/@saki
5. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-349-20151-8_11

Representative Quotations from “The Interlopers” by H.H. Munro

Quotation	Theorization
“Each had a rifle in his hand, each had hate in his heart and murder uppermost in his mind.”	This quotation highlights the deep-seated animosity between Ulrich and Georg, emphasizing the theme of longstanding feuds and the destructive power of human conflict. It reflects the theory of human nature as inherently competitive and aggressive, especially when driven by personal vendettas and territorial disputes. The presence of weapons symbolizes the potential for violence and the escalation of conflict.
“I’ve changed my mind. If my men are the first to come you shall be the first to be helped, as though you were my guest.”	Ulrich’s change of heart signifies a shift in perspective and a rejection of the cycle of violence. This quotation supports the theory of reconciliation and forgiveness as pathways to peace and mutual understanding. It suggests that individuals have the capacity for empathy and cooperation, even in the midst of longstanding conflicts. Ulrich’s offer of friendship challenges traditional notions of enmity and rivalry, proposing an alternative path towards reconciliation and cooperation.
“No one living can remember seeing a Znaeym and a von Gradwitz talking to one another in friendship.”	Georg’s reflection on the rarity of friendship between their families underscores the entrenched nature of their feud and the societal expectations that reinforce division and hostility. This quotation aligns with the theory of social norms and expectations shaping interpersonal relationships and perpetuating conflict. It suggests that societal pressures and historical grievances can obstruct reconciliation and perpetuate cycles of violence. Georg’s contemplation of the societal impact of their friendship highlights the transformative potential of interpersonal relationships in challenging ingrained prejudices and fostering unity.
“Wolves.”	The revelation of the approaching wolves serves as a metaphor for the unpredictability and inherent dangers of nature, mirroring the unpredictable nature of human conflict. This quotation aligns with the theory of existentialism, which emphasizes the absurdity and chaos of existence. The sudden appearance of the wolves disrupts the characters’ plans and expectations, highlighting the arbitrary and uncontrollable forces at play in life. It symbolizes the inevitability of external threats and the fragility of human endeavors in the face of larger forces beyond individual control.