Reference no: EM133660703
Rough Draft of Compare and Contrast Essay (Eveline and Harrison Bergeron)
"Eveline" by James Joyce is a short story that follows the protagonist, Eveline, as she grapples with the decision to leave her home and family to start a new life with her lover, Frank. The story is set in Dublin, and Eveline sits at the window, reflecting on her life and the impending departure.
Eveline's thoughts reveal her weariness with her current life-her father's violence, the struggles to keep the house together, and the inescapable squabbles over money. Despite the hardships, she also finds a certain comfort and familiarity in her routine. The narrative delves into Eveline's internal conflict as she contemplates leaving behind the known for an uncertain future with Frank.
Frank, whom she met secretly due to her father's disapproval, represents a chance for a new life filled with love and respect. The story captures Eveline's inner turmoil, torn between the desire for a better life and the fear of the unknown. The reminiscence of her mother's sacrifices and the haunting memory of her mother's last words add emotional depth to Eveline's dilemma.
As she stands at the North Wall station with Frank, ready to embark on their journey to Buenos Aires, Eveline grapples with a surge of conflicting emotions. The story ends with a bell clanging upon her heart, symbolizing the final moment of decision. In the end, as Frank calls for her to come, Eveline's response is passive, and her eyes reveal no sign of recognition or love. The story leaves the resolution of Eveline's internal conflict open-ended, inviting readers to contemplate the implications of her choice.
"Harrison Bergeron" is a short story by Kurt Vonnegut that explores a dystopian future where extreme measures are taken to enforce equality among individuals. In this society, amendments to the Constitution mandate equality in every aspect of life, and a Handicapper General enforces these rules to prevent anyone from having advantages over others.
The story follows George and Hazel Bergeron, whose son Harrison is exceptionally intelligent and athletic. Due to his perceived threat to the equality enforced by the government, Harrison is taken away. The narrative portrays the struggles of the Bergerons and the consequences of trying to break free from the imposed equality.
Harrison escapes from jail, declaring himself Emperor and seeking an Empress. The story climaxes with a moment of rebellion as Harrison and his chosen Empress break free from their handicaps and gravity, defying the laws of the land. However, their defiance is swiftly crushed by the Handicapper General, who shoots them dead, restoring order and equality.
The story raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of equality, the limits of government control, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a utopian society. Vonnegut uses satire and irony to critique the extremes that societies might go to in the name of equality.