The Kugelmass Episode

by Woody Allen

Start Free Trial

Student Question

How does "The Kugelmass Episode" exemplify the genre of magical realism?

Quick answer:

"The Kugelmass Episode" exemplifies magical realism by blending realistic and supernatural elements. The story features a mundane protagonist, Kugelmass, whose life changes when he encounters a magician with a magical box, allowing him to enter literary worlds. This blend of real-life settings, such as therapy sessions and marital interactions, with the fantastical ability to interact with fictional characters, embodies the essence of magical realism.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Magical realism is a literary movement that blends realistic events with elements of the supernatural. In “The Kugelmass Episode,” Kugelmass is a typical guy who is bored with his life and looking for adventure and affection. The elements of realism in the story include his visit with his therapist, his interactions with his wife and his responses to the various situations in which he finds himself. Although the literary characters discussed in the story are fictional, the books themselves are real. However, the story becomes magical realism when the “magician” enters the storyline with his magical box. The idea of a character traveling into various literary settings to meet fictional characters ensures this story fits into the magical realism genre.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial