Editha by William Dean Howells is a story that filters into the readers mind in a manner that reflects alertness in mind so that the reader can capture every detail that the author is trying to reveal. Patriotism is the main theme in the story, since the author explains how difficult it is to change a set idea; that set idea is the love for a country above all. The organizational pattern used in the essay and which is also found in the story is transformation. The variables to be analyzed are war and patriotism since those are the most outstanding variables.

In the story, patriotism is influential. Editha pushes George to go to war because of her patriotism which is very strong. As a result of Editha's patriotism, George gets killed in action. Most people don't think of the consequences when they have their mind set on...