Dozens of Roses
Identify one of the darker actions examined in a story or drama from this unit. In what piece is the action highlighted? What intentions or emotions prompt the action? How would the story or drama change if the character involved were able to overcome the darker impulse and indulge a higher intention? Explain.
One of the darker actions examined in this unit is the act of betrayal, as seen in the drama "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller. In this play, the character of Willy Loman betrays his son Biff by cheating on his wife and lying about his success, which ultimately leads to the deterioration of their relationship.
The intentions behind Willy's betrayal stem from his desire for success and the need to maintain the illusion of the American Dream for himself and his family. He is consumed by his fear of failure and inability to accept the reality of his own shortcomings, leading him to betray those closest to him in order to keep up appearances.
If Willy were able to overcome his darker impulse and instead embrace a higher intention, such as honesty and humility, the story would change dramatically. By being truthful with his family and himself, Willy could potentially mend his relationship with Biff and find a sense of peace and contentment within himself. This transformation could lead to a more positive outcome for the characters involved and perhaps a redemption for Willy in the end.
Dozens of Roses
For each item on the list of writing techniques below, choose the selection from this unit that best utilizes it. Describe how it is used and the effect of its use in the story, and give reasons why you chose it.
withheld information
unreliable narrator
shocking twist
foil
Withheld information: The selection from this unit that best utilizes the technique of withheld information is the short story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. In this story, the author deliberately withholds the true nature of the lottery being conducted in the town until the very end. Readers are kept in the dark about the purpose and significance of the lottery, resulting in a sense of mystery and intrigue building throughout the narrative. The revelation of the true nature of the lottery at the end of the story shocks and unsettles readers, highlighting the impact of withheld information in creating suspense and delivering a powerful twist.
Unreliable narrator: The selection from this unit that best utilizes the technique of an unreliable narrator is the play "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. The story is presented through the perspective of Tom Wingfield, who serves as the narrator of the play. Tom's narration is colored by his own biases, emotions, and memories, making him an unreliable narrator as he presents events in a subjective and often distorted manner. This adds layers of complexity to the characters and enhances the dramatic tension in the play, as the audience is left to question the truth and reliability of Tom's portrayal of events.
Shocking twist: The selection from this unit that best utilizes the technique of a shocking twist is the short story "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" by Ambrose Bierce. In this story, the author creates a surprising and dramatic twist at the end when it is revealed that the protagonist's escape from execution was merely a hallucination occurring in the moments before his death. This twist completely changes the reader's interpretation of the events leading up to the climax, challenging their perceptions and leaving a lasting impact.
Foil: The selection from this unit that best utilizes the technique of a foil is the play "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller. In this play, the characters of Willy Loman and his neighbor Charley serve as foils to each other. Willy is a struggling and delusional salesman who values superficial success and is unable to accept failure, while Charley is a successful and practical businessman who values hard work and honesty. The contrast between these characters highlights the themes of success, failure, and the American Dream in the play, providing insight into Willy's character and the consequences of his actions.