Choose two of the “other worlds” described in the unit. Compare and contrast the way these other worlds impacted the real life world for characters. The two story's are, “A Sound of Thunder” and “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”
In "A Sound of Thunder" by Ray Bradbury, the main character travels back in time to the prehistoric era and inadvertently alters the course of history by stepping on a butterfly. This small action has significant repercussions in the real world, leading to a dystopian future where the English language and society have changed. The other world of the past, therefore, directly impacts the present and future world of the characters.
On the other hand, in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" by James Thurber, the other world exists solely in the protagonist's imagination. Walter Mitty daydreams about being a heroic and adventurous figure, living in a world very different from his mundane and monotonous real life. The other world of Walter Mitty's imagination acts as an escape from reality and enables him to cope with the humdrum nature of his existence.
While both stories feature other worlds that impact the real life world for their characters, the nature of these impacts is quite different. In "A Sound of Thunder," the consequences are tangible and drastic, leading to a changed society. The actions taken in the other world directly affect the real life world, causing a shift in the timeline and altering the course of history. In contrast, the impacts in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" are more psychological and personal. Mitty uses his vivid imagination as a coping mechanism to deal with the dissatisfaction and boredom of his real life. The other world of his daydreams provides him with a sense of empowerment and fulfillment, acting as a temporary escape from his ordinary existence.
Overall, while both stories explore the concept of other worlds, their impact on the real life world differs significantly. "A Sound of Thunder" demonstrates the potential consequences of altering the past, while in "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," the other world is a form of escapism that helps the protagonist endure his mundane life.