Reference no: EM133263721

The main character of Wheeler's "Bring Your Lover to Work Day" is never given (a) a name or (b) pronouns. Like all choices writers make, these facets of the character's identity are intentional. Do not make assumptions about this character (i.e., do not give this character a name, and be sure to use gender neutral pronouns, such as they/them, when referring to this character). 

Background

Near the start of "Pilot": Harrity Elementary, Janine explains of her coworkers, "The staff here is amazing," and she reinforces that "they're incredible teachers" (Brunson 2). The main character of "Bring Your Lover to Work Day" hears from their managers, "You're doing a good job," and, "You are a good employee" (Wheeler). While these sentiments seem to reflect a positive worker/workplace relationship, critical readers may efficiently determine that this is - in some ways and cases - a façade. 

Points to Address

1. Part One: First, explore the power dynamics in both of this week's works. Use specific examples to show how the characters' roles as either proletariat or bourgeoisie empower or disempower them. Which rituals, actions, and/or dialogue best reflect the power dynamics in both works? How do secondary characters help the main characters gain power or maintain the status quo? Direct evidence from the short story and screenplay will be necessary here; remember to use parenthetical citations when you quote. As a reminder, the citations for the short story are just the author's last name, but since the screenplay is paginated (i.e., there are page numbers), remember to include the last name of the author and the page number from which you are quoting (just like the examples in "Background").
2. Part Two: Next, select one of this week's main characters: Janine or Wheeler's protagonist. What is the relationship between the character and their work product? When does the character feel alienated, energized, and/or hopeful? What is at least one symbol that reflects the character's psychological state, and what does the symbol mean? How successful is the character at changing their circumstances?