[Avodah] Midrashim, Elu VeElu, and History

[Harvey Benton]

1. The concept of Elu VeElu Divrei Elokim Chaim is well known.  My question is how does it relate to historical (non-Halachic) Chazals's such as Midrashim, Gemmoras and Zohar's.  If competing Chazals present a historical description of events in different, non compatible ways, how do we then hold from Elu VeElu? 

For instance Avraham coming with many men (gem. of Eliezer) v. Eliezer alone. Or which exact species was eaten in Gan Eden (Etrog, wheat, grape, etc.,).  Many such examples exist.  (Note: The gemmara (Shabbas 63b) does not say Elu VeElu Divrei Elokim Emes.)

2.  Far-fetched and fantastical Midrashim are usually thought to be illiciting deeper meanings.  Do any acceptable Meforshim think otherwise; i.e. do any Meforshim believe that Any and ALL Midrashim must be taken literally and at face value?  HB