Choose two of the “other worlds” described in the unit. Compare and contrast the ways these other worlds impacted the real world for the characters. Select the link to access the English Essay Rubric.
In the unit, two "other worlds" are prominently described in the stories "The Giver" and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty." These worlds are vastly different from the characters' reality and have significant impacts on their lives. By comparing and contrasting these other worlds, we can explore the varying ways they affect the characters and their real world.
In "The Giver," the other world is a dystopian society where emotions, memories, and freedom of choice are suppressed. Jonas, the protagonist, is chosen as the Receiver of Memory and experiences a hidden reality that contrasts with the sterilized and controlled life of his community. The impact of this other world on Jonas is profound, as it opens his eyes to the truth that the elders withhold from the citizens. Through memories of pain and joy, Jonas gains a deeper understanding of humanity's experiences and emotions.
On the other hand, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" introduces an other world that exists in Walter Mitty's imagination. Walter is a daydreamer who frequently zones out from his mundane life to vividly imagine himself in adventurous and heroic situations. Unlike the strictly controlled world in "The Giver," Walter's other world is a form of escapism from reality. It allows him to alleviate the boredom and monotony of his real life by indulging in exciting fantasies.
Despite the differences in these other worlds, their impacts on the characters' real lives share some similarities. In both cases, the other worlds provide an escape from the characters' unfulfilling realities. Jonas finds solace and purpose in the memories he receives, feeling a sense of importance that contrasts with the conformity and sameness of his community. Similarly, Walter Mitty's other world allows him to experience excitement, confidence, and control that is lacking in his ordinary life. These other worlds become sources of empowerment and enable the characters to challenge the constraints imposed on them.
Moreover, the other worlds heighten the characters' self-awareness and bring about personal growth. For Jonas, his exposure to the other world deepens his understanding of the emotions and experiences that shape human existence. This awareness leads him to question the stagnant nature of his society and ultimately prompts him to take action to change it. Likewise, Walter's encounters in his other world facilitate his self-discovery and embolden him to confront his insecurities in the real world. Through his imaginative escapes, he gradually becomes more assertive and finds the courage to assert himself in his daily life.
In conclusion, the other worlds presented in "The Giver" and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" impact the characters' lives in distinct yet overlapping ways. While Jonas's other world uncovers the truth and instigates rebellion against an oppressive society, Walter's other world serves as a form of liberation and personal growth. Both other worlds offer an escape from their respective realities, empower the characters, and facilitate self-awareness. These stories remind us of the transformative power that lies in our imagination and the potential it holds to shape our real-world experiences.
(Note: A link to the English Essay Rubric has not been provided, as the AI language model is unable to generate or access external links.)