Describe the effects of circumstance on character.(include such thing as education, family,race,economic status, social status, clutural background and geographical location).From the story Young Goodman Brown And A&p
The effects of circumstances on character are often significant and multifaceted. In the stories "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne and "A&P" by John Updike, various factors such as education, family, race, economic status, social status, cultural background, and geographical location shape the characters' attitudes, beliefs, and actions.
1. Education:
Education can profoundly impact a character's worldview. Characters with a higher level of education may possess critical thinking skills, a broader perspective, and a deeper understanding of social dynamics, enabling them to make informed decisions. In "A&P," the protagonist Sammy's limited education affects his perspective on societal norms and his ability to empathize with others.
2. Family:
Family plays a crucial role in shaping character development. Upbringing, values, and relationships within the family unit shape a character's beliefs and behaviors. In "Young Goodman Brown," Brown's ancestors and family history deeply influence his perception of good and evil, leading him to question the morality of those around him.
3. Race:
Race can significantly impact a character's experiences and opportunities within society. In "A&P," the characters' racial backgrounds, although not explicitly mentioned, can influence their interactions and experiences in the grocery store. Racial stereotypes and prejudices can influence characters' attitudes and actions.
4. Economic Status:
Economic status affects characters' access to resources, opportunities, and social mobility. In both stories, economic factors contribute to shaping the characters' perspectives and decisions. Sammy's working-class background in "A&P" influences his perception of authority and his desire for something better in life.
5. Social Status:
Social status can determine an individual's power, influence, and acceptance within society. In "Young Goodman Brown," characters' social standing impacts the ease with which they integrate into the community. Those with higher social status might wield greater authority and can shape others' opinions and actions.
6. Cultural Background:
Cultural background influences characters' traditions, values, and behaviors. In both stories, cultural backgrounds play a role in determining characters' perceptions and actions. The Puritan culture in "Young Goodman Brown" shapes Brown's beliefs about sin and the nature of humanity, while the cultural norms in "A&P" influence Sammy's perspective on modesty and rebellion.
7. Geographical Location:
Geographical location can shape characters' experiences and perspectives. The setting in "Young Goodman Brown," a Puritan colony, influences characters' religious beliefs, moral attitudes, and the presence of temptation. Similarly, the suburban grocery store setting in "A&P" reflects the social climate and expectations of the time.
Overall, the effects of circumstances on character are complex and interwoven. These various factors, such as education, family, race, economic status, social status, cultural background, and geographical location, play crucial roles in shaping characters' identities, beliefs, and actions in both "Young Goodman Brown" and "A&P." Understanding these influences helps analyze and interpret the characters' motivations and behaviors in the stories.