Note: Your teacher will grade your response to ensure that you receive proper credit for your answer. Your responses should include the following to receive the points in parentheses:%0D%0A Respond in a well-organized essay, and make sure your answer is written in complete sentences. (16 pts)%0D%0ASelect the link to access the English Essay Rubric.%0D%0A%0D%0A English Essay Rubric%0D%0A%0D%0A%0D%0AIn "The Literature of East Asia and the Pacific Rim," Michael Harris quotes: " 'Oh, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.' With this famous line, British writer Rudyard Kipling has captured the idea that the East and West are so radically different that their people can't possibly understand one another. Do you agree or disagree with Kipling's statement? Write an essay in which you defend your opinion. Use examples from at least two or three of the selections you read. Be sure to include the title of each selection you cite as evidence.%0D%0ASelect the link to access the English Essay Rubric.
I agree with Rudyard Kipling's statement that "East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet." Throughout the readings in "The Literature of East Asia and the Pacific Rim," it is evident that the East and West have distinct cultural, social, and historical differences that make it difficult for their people to fully understand one another.
One of the selections that supports this idea is "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu. In this Japanese classic, we are given insights into the courtly life of the Heian period. The characters in the story adhere to strict social hierarchies and engage in complex rituals and etiquette. The concept of beauty in "The Tale of Genji" revolves around physical appearance and the art of seduction. This is in stark contrast to Western ideals which place a greater emphasis on individual freedom and personal expression. The differences in social norms and values make it challenging for individuals from the East to comprehend the mindset of those from the West.
Another selection that exemplifies the disparity between East and West is "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan. This novel delves into the lives of Chinese-American mothers and their American-born daughters. The struggles faced by the Chinese mothers in connecting with their American daughters are a reflection of the cultural gap between them. The mothers try to impart their traditional Chinese values and beliefs onto their daughters, but often, their efforts are met with confusion and resistance. The clash of Eastern and Western values, as depicted in "The Joy Luck Club," highlights the difficulty of bridging the gap between these two distinct cultures.
Furthermore, the historical context of East Asia and the Pacific Rim plays a significant role in the divide between East and West. The region has had a long history of colonization and dominance by Western powers, which has left lasting impacts on the culture and identity of the people. For example, the influence of Western imperialism can be seen in the modernization efforts of countries like Japan and China. While these nations have made great strides in adopting Western technology and systems, there is still a sense of cultural identity and pride that sets them apart from their Western counterparts. This historical baggage adds another layer of complexity to the idea that the East and West can never fully understand one another.
In conclusion, I agree with Rudyard Kipling's statement that the East and West are fundamentally different and cannot fully understand one another. The examples from "The Tale of Genji" and "The Joy Luck Club" demonstrate the cultural, social, and historical differences between the two regions. While there may be some areas of overlap and shared experiences, the fundamental disparities in values, beliefs, and histories make it challenging for individuals from the East and West to truly comprehend each other.