In "The Literature of the Americas," Kimberly Koza writes: "By discovering the literature of our neighbors, we may also learn about ourselves."
Keeping this quote in mind, respond to the question.
Which characters or selections helped open our eyes to a new way of seeing the world? Write a paragraph that explains how Koza's statement applies to the theme of the selection. Include at least two supporting details or examples. Be sure to include the title of the selection and indicate whether the author comes from Canada or Latin America.
In the selection "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros from Latin America, the character of Esperanza helps open our eyes to a new way of seeing the world. Through her experiences and thoughts, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and dreams of immigrants in America. Firstly, we learn about the power of personal expression and how writing can serve as a tool for empowerment. Esperanza, as a budding writer, uses her voice to defy the limitations imposed on her. Secondly, we are exposed to the complexities of identity and the importance of cultural heritage. Esperanza's journey of self-discovery and her connection to her Mexican-American roots allow us to reflect on our own identities and heritage. As we navigate Esperanza's world, we not only gain insights into the lives of others, but we also reflect on our own experiences, aligning with Koza's statement that the literature of our neighbors helps us learn about ourselves.
To answer this question, we need to select a character or a selection that has helped us see the world in a new way and connect it to Kimberly Koza's statement. One example that fits this description is the character of Santiago in Gabriel Garcia Marquez's novel "The Old Man and the Sea" from Latin America. Santiago, an elderly Cuban fisherman, epitomizes resilience and determination amidst adversity. Through his unwavering spirit and relentless pursuit of the giant marlin, Santiago demonstrates the power of human perseverance and the importance of never giving up, even in the face of overwhelming odds. By portraying such a character, Marquez enables us to see the strength and resilience within ourselves, encouraging us to face life's challenges with the same determination and courage. Santiago's journey transcends cultural boundaries and connects with readers across the globe, emphasizing Koza's idea that exploring the literature of our neighbors allows us to discover universal truths about the human experience.
Another example that aligns with Koza's statement is the selection "Do Not Say We Have Nothing" by Madeleine Thien, a Canadian author. This novel portrays the lives of three generations of a Chinese family as they navigate through the tumultuous period of Mao's Cultural Revolution and its aftermath. Through the characters' experiences, the novel offers profound insights into themes like the power of art, the resilience of the human spirit, and the search for identity in the face of political upheaval. Thien's work broadens our understanding of history, culture, and the multi-faceted nature of human existence. By immersing ourselves in this selection, we not only gain knowledge about a specific period and culture, but we also become more aware of our own place in the world and the potential for personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity. Thien's characters become a conduit for self-reflection, illustrating the capacity of literature to teach us about ourselves and the shared humanity we all possess.
In conclusion, both Santiago from Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "The Old Man and the Sea" and the characters in Madeleine Thien's "Do Not Say We Have Nothing" exemplify how literature can offer new perspectives and expand our worldview. By exploring the literature of our neighbors, as Koza suggests, we gain insight into the human condition and better understand our own experiences and identities.