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.
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Critical Response Essay: "A Sound of Thunder" vs. "Nethergrave"
Introduction:
In the genre of science fiction, two stories that stand out are "A Sound of Thunder" by Ray Bradbury and "Nethergrave" by Gloria Skurzynski. Both stories possess unique elements that make them intriguing and thought-provoking. However, "A Sound of Thunder" emerges as the stronger work of science fiction because of its utilization of time travel, stronger characterization, and its theme of the butterfly effect.
Paragraph 1:
Both "A Sound of Thunder" and "Nethergrave" fit into the science fiction genre due to specific elements within the stories. In "A Sound of Thunder," time travel is the key element that makes it science fiction. The story explores the idea of altering the past, leading to unforeseen consequences in the present and future. On the other hand, "Nethergrave" incorporates virtual reality, where the protagonist enters a computer-simulated world. This technology-based concept also falls under the umbrella of science fiction. Despite their differences, both stories use these elements to capture readers' imaginations.
Paragraph 2:
Analyzing the literary element of characterization in both stories, it becomes evident that "A Sound of Thunder" excels in this aspect. Bradbury's story provides vivid descriptions of the characters, allowing readers to form strong connections with them. For instance, Eckels, the time traveler, is portrayed as a fearful and impulsive man, adding depth to his character. In contrast, "Nethergrave" lacks in-depth characterization, as the protagonist, Jeremy, feels underdeveloped. Skurzynski fails to fully explore Jeremy's motivations and personality, making it difficult for readers to connect with him. This lack of strong characterization hampers the overall impact of the story.
Paragraph 3:
The theme of a story is crucial in delivering the intended message to readers. In "A Sound of Thunder," the theme of the butterfly effect is prominent. Bradbury highlights the profound impact even the smallest actions can have on the future. As Eckels steps off the path during a dinosaur-hunting expedition, he inadvertently steps on a butterfly, resulting in significant changes to the present. This theme emphasizes the delicate balance of the universe and the consequences of our choices. On the other hand, "Nethergrave" explores the theme of escapism and the dangers of living in a virtual world. While this theme is significant, it lacks the depth and complexity of the butterfly effect in "A Sound of Thunder." Bradbury's theme is more thought-provoking and resonates with readers on a deeper level.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "A Sound of Thunder" surpasses "Nethergrave" in terms of its strength as a work of science fiction. Bradbury effectively incorporates time travel, provides well-developed characterization, and explores the profound theme of the butterfly effect. These elements combine to create a thought-provoking and impactful story. While "Nethergrave" also possesses science fiction elements and a relevant theme, it falls short in terms of characterization and depth. Ultimately, "A Sound of Thunder" proves to be the stronger story in the genre of science fiction.