Create a critical response essay Read the stories “A Sound of Thunder” by Ray Bradbury and “Nethergrave” by
Gloria Skurzynski very carefully, making sure you have a thorough understanding
of each. This may mean reading both stories more than once.
2. Reflect
Think of the literary elements in each story such as plot, setting, characterization,
dialogue, point of view, tone, and especially theme. Also, consider how both
stories fit into the genre (category) of science fiction.
3. Thesis Statement
Your essay will begin with an introduction. This will include a thesis statement
that says which of the stories you think is the best and WHY you feel this way. An
example of a thesis statement would be as follows:
“Ray Bradbury’s story “A Sound of Thunder” is a stronger work of science
fiction than Gloria Skurzynski’s “Nethergrave” because it involves time
travel, has better characterization, and its theme reveals how even the
smallest act can have an impact on the future of mankind.”
(This is an example of a thesis statement. Please do NOT use this in your
essay.)
Remember, your thesis statement should be clear and valid. This means your
thesis is easy to understand and that you will be able to prove it through the
explanations you provide in the body of your paper. Your introduction will also
briefly state the main points you will cover throughout your essay.
4. Body
The body of your paper should be divided into three paragraphs. Each
paragraph will fit in with the claims you made in your thesis statement. You will
use examples from both stories to provide support.
Paragraph 1 – Discuss how each of these stories fit into the genre of
science fiction. What elements or events in EACH story make it science
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fiction? This can include the story’s setting, types of technology used,
events from the plot of the story, etc. Make sure you mention elements
from BOTH stories as you will be comparing and contrasting.
Paragraph 2 – Next, choose ONE literary element (characterization,
point of view, tone, etc.) and explain how the authors use this literary
element in each story. Do not choose theme for this section as you will
use this in your third body paragraph. Which story do you think uses this
element more effectively and WHY do you think this? Only use ONE
literary element and apply this to both stories. For example, you would
talk about Tone in “A Sound of Thunder” and Tone in “Nethergrave.” You
are comparing and contrasting the two stories and will apply the same
literary element to each.
Paragraph 3 – In your last body paragraph, you will discuss the themes
found in each story. Remember, the theme is the message the author
wishes to convey. It is what he or she wants you to learn or to take away
from the story. What are the themes of “A Sound of Thunder” and
“Nethergrave?” Which theme do you think is more effective and WHY?
You will compare/contrast ONE theme from EACH story.
5. Conclusion
In the conclusion of your paper, you will restate your thesis from the
introduction. Restating the thesis means that you will say it in a different way. Do
not simply copy and paste the thesis statement from your introduction. You will
elaborate on your opinion as to which story you think is better and why you feel
this way. Also in your conclusion, you will briefly sum up the major points of your
paper, highlighting what you feel is most important.
Note: When writing Critical Response Essays, always use present tense, even if
the story is written in past tense. For example, in your essay you would say, “Eckles
steps off the path on his way back to the time capsule” rather than “Eckles stepped
off the path on his way back to the time capsule.” Use the present tense of verbs
when referring to the events in the stories.
In the world of literature, science fiction has the ability to transport readers to unimaginable realms and challenge their perception of reality. Ray Bradbury's "A Sound of Thunder" and Gloria Skurzynski's "Nethergrave" are two captivating science fiction stories that explore themes of time travel and the impact of individual choices. However, "A Sound of Thunder" demonstrates stronger elements of science fiction through its intricate portrayal of time travel, thorough characterization, and thought-provoking theme.
Firstly, the genre of science fiction primarily hinges on the presence of advanced technological concepts and events that are not yet feasible in reality. Both "A Sound of Thunder" and "Nethergrave" contain elements that categorize them as science fiction stories. For instance, "A Sound of Thunder" introduces the concept of time travel, allowing characters to journey into the past and potentially alter the future. Moreover, the story emphasizes the importance of not disrupting the past, as even the slightest change could result in catastrophic consequences for the present and future. On the other hand, "Nethergrave" does not incorporate any extraordinary technological advancements or concepts. It predominantly focuses on virtual reality and the idea of escaping one's bleak reality. Although "Nethergrave" contains elements of science fiction, such as the portrayal of a virtual world, it lacks the complexity and exploration of scientific concepts present in "A Sound of Thunder."
Furthermore, effective characterization significantly enhances the immersive experience of a science fiction story. In "A Sound of Thunder," the reader is introduced to richly developed characters, such as Eckels and Travis. Eckels, the protagonist, is portrayed as a fearful and impulsive individual who disregards the warnings of his guide, Travis. This characterization allows readers to deeply empathize with Eckels when he unintentionally alters the course of history, emphasizing the consequences of his actions. In contrast, "Nethergrave" lacks profound character development. The main character, Jeremy, is merely depicted as an isolated and desolate teenager, which fails to evoke the same level of emotional investment in the reader. The stronger characterization in "A Sound of Thunder" enhances the impact of the story's science fiction elements.
Additionally, the theme, or the underlying message, of a science fiction story serves to provoke contemplation and reflection in the reader. "A Sound of Thunder" explores the theme of the butterfly effect, highlighting the power and significance of even the smallest actions. Bradbury's story urges readers to consider the implications of their choices and the ripple effects they may unknowingly create. Conversely, "Nethergrave" revolves around the theme of escapism and the consequences of losing oneself in a virtual world. While both stories present compelling themes, the theme in "A Sound of Thunder" resonates more profoundly with readers as it encourages self-reflection and awareness of our actions' potential consequences.
In conclusion, Ray Bradbury's "A Sound of Thunder" proves to be a stronger work of science fiction compared to Gloria Skurzynski's "Nethergrave." The intricate portrayal of time travel, well-developed characterization, and thought-provoking theme contribute to the overall strength of Bradbury's story. Through "A Sound of Thunder," readers are prompted to contemplate the impact of their choices and acknowledge the interconnectedness of their actions. As a result, this story transcends the boundaries of the science fiction genre by inviting readers to reflect on their own capacity to shape the future.