Can u give me an essay on who the monster is in the book ¨monster¨by walter dean myers
In Walter Dean Myers' novel "Monster," the question of who the real monster is is central to the story. As it follows the trial of a young African American teenager, Steve Harmon, who is accused of being an accessory to a robbery that resulted in murder, the novel challenges readers to consider what defines a monster and who is deserving of such a label.
Throughout the novel, Steve struggles with his own identity and sense of self. As a teenager who dreams of becoming a filmmaker, he is faced with the harsh realities of the criminal justice system and the prejudice that he faces as a young black man. The novel raises important questions about the ways in which society often dehumanizes and labels individuals based on their race and socio-economic status, leading to the conclusion that the real monsters are not necessarily the ones behind bars, but the ones who perpetuate these injustices.
One of the central themes of the novel is the idea of who gets to define what makes someone a monster. As Steve's trial unfolds, the prosecution argues that he is guilty by association, based on his presence at the scene of the crime. However, as the narrative shifts between Steve's thoughts and his film script, readers are given a deeper insight into his inner turmoil and his struggle to come to terms with his own actions.
Ultimately, the novel challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about who is deserving of forgiveness and who is truly a monster. Through Steve's journey of self-discovery and his struggle to reconcile the different aspects of his identity, "Monster" offers a complex and nuanced portrayal of the ways in which individuals can be both victims and perpetrators of injustice.
In conclusion, the real monster in "Monster" is not just one individual, but rather the systemic forces that perpetuate racism, inequality, and injustice. By shining a light on the ways in which these forces can shape individuals' lives and distort perceptions of guilt and innocence, Walter Dean Myers' novel ultimately challenges readers to consider who the real monsters are in our society and how we can work towards a more just and equitable future.