Select one of the prompts below and follow the directions. Your essay should be three paragraphs and must have a thesis statement in the first paragraph. Be sure to develop your ideas fully and to refer to the passage read in the section.
Some critics complain that contemporary fiction lacks moral standards and depicts a gloomy vision of an amoral society. Do you agree or disagree with these critics? Use the fiction in this unit to support your position.
I agree with the critics that contemporary fiction often lacks moral standards and presents a gloomy vision of an amoral society. The fiction read in this unit provides numerous examples that support this viewpoint. For instance, in George Saunders' "CivilWarLand in Bad Decline," the characters of the amusement park are selfish, apathetic, and focused solely on personal gain. Similarly, in Sherman Alexie's "War Dances," the protagonist cheats on his wife and engages in unethical behavior for his own benefit. These stories, among others, paint a grim picture of a society devoid of moral values.
One of the main reasons contemporary fiction lacks moral standards is the emphasis on individualism and personal gain. In "CivilWarLand in Bad Decline," the characters are driven solely by their desires and have no concern for the well-being of others. The protagonist, for example, is willing to exploit a young girl's tragic story for his own financial gain. This disregard for basic ethical principles is a common theme in much of contemporary fiction, where characters prioritize their own desires above all else.
Furthermore, the portrayal of a gloomy and amoral society can be seen in Sherman Alexie's "War Dances." The protagonist, in a moment of weakness, cheats on his wife and lies to cover up his infidelity. This behavior reflects the general lack of moral standards in the society depicted in the story. The characters in this collection of short stories often engage in deceitful and unethical behavior, presenting a vision of a society where moral values have lost their importance.
In conclusion, the fiction read in this unit supports the criticism that contemporary fiction lacks moral standards and presents a gloomy vision of an amoral society. The emphasis on individualism and personal gain, as well as the portrayal of characters engaging in unethical behavior, contribute to this bleak depiction. While these stories may accurately reflect certain aspects of modern society, it is important for authors to also present a more balanced and hopeful view of humanity's potential for moral growth and compassion.