2007, Form B. Works of literature often depict acts of betrayal. Friends and even family may betray a protagonist; main characters may likewise be guilty of treachery or may betray their own values. Select a novel or play that includes such acts of betrayal. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze the nature of the betrayal and show how it contributes to the meaning of the work as a whole.
The reason why someone betrays us can sometimes never be clear, but authors leave their readers with the ability to analyze why a character did something with the help of context clues. In Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, betrayal plays a huge role in the ending of the novel. Through analyzing the novel we are able to understand that the murder of Lenny was based off of protection and love.
George and Lenny begin the novel on the run looking for a new life. Lenny has once again caused problems where they were, and George decides that they should be relocated. At first it seems as if George is stuck with a dim witted friend who is constantly reeking havoc, but as the novel continues we see that George actually cares for Lenny. Because of these emotions, most readers are in pure disgust when they read about George killing Lenny for doing something he has no control over.
This act of betrayal was out of love and protection. By killing Lenny himself, Geoge spared Lenny from being tortured by the people who didn't know the truth about Lenny. However, the first time reading this novel, many people are caught up in how vile and repulsive George's actions are until they look through his eyes and see what he saw. George knew that he had to kill his best friend, to spare him the pain and torture that was coming, even though it would cause himself pain as well. George's act of betrayal was not driven by hatred or disgust, but by love and fear. George wanted Lenny to go peacefully, so he betrayed his own best friend to spare his feelings.
I feel like this is a little incomplete. Yes, you explain why George did what he did. But how does it contribute to overall meaning? What is Steinbeck trying to convey to his audience? On the other hand, I like your writing style a lot. Forget Steinbeck, your use of diction, choosing words like "havoc" and "vile" is great. I can really hear your voice.
ReplyDeleteGood job with this fourth Open Prompt! I have to say, Of Mice and Men is perhaps one of my favorite novels of all time and I was surprised to see it come up in your Open Prompt. However, I felt that this entry was lacking in comparison to your other Open Prompts, you had an excellent opportunity to discuss the nature of the novel and it’s messages within acts of betrayal (Maybe talk about Candy and his dog?). I also felt you spent a great deal of your essay summarizing the novel and your thesis left me asking “Analyzing what?”. Nonetheless, it’s good to see that you’re able to draw from other sources for Open Prompts, especially texts like Of Mice and Men.
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