Since the beginning of time, society has clashed with individuals and their beliefs. There has always been a tension between what is socially accepted versus what an individual wants to express. This conflict between character and society can be seen in literature, film, and other art forms, as writers explore the struggles that arise when individual beliefs are at odds with social norms. In this article, we will examine how this theme is explored in various works of literature and how it can be used to make a statement about the power of individual expression.
What is Character and Society?
Character vs society is a theme that has been explored in various works of literature and is defined as the conflict between individual beliefs and values, and those of an established social order. This struggle between character and society can take many forms, such as when a person’s own values are at odds with a larger group or when an individual’s behaviors are seen as rebellious against societal norms. In literature, this struggle can be seen in characters who try to make their own way in a world that often seeks to control them.
Importance of examining this theme in literature
The examination of the theme of character vs society in literature is important because it allows readers to gain a better understanding of how individuals can struggle with the values and expectations that their society imposes on them. By exploring this theme, writers can provide insight into how people must grapple with the power dynamics within their culture and how those dynamics can shape their individual beliefs. Examining this theme also encourages readers to think critically about the role of individual expression in a larger social framework and how it can be used to challenge the status quo.
The Conflict between Individuality and Conformity
The pressure to conform to social norms and expectations
The pressure to conform to social norms and expectations is a major theme explored in literature when examining the conflict between character and society. This struggle can be seen in characters who must choose between standing up for their individual beliefs, or conforming to those of the larger group. Characters are often faced with difficult decisions when they must decide whether they should conform to the values and expectations of their society or risk being ostracized for going against the grain. In some cases, characters are even forced to choose between their own personal happiness and what is expected of them by their society.
Examples of characters who struggle with their individuality
In literature, there are many examples of characters who have to grapple with the conflict between their own individual beliefs and those of their society. For example, in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a character who stands up for his personal convictions despite the pressure from his community to conform. Similarly, in George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the character of Boxer is a symbol of individual strength and resilience against conformity. In J.D Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield is an example of a character whose sense of individuality causes him to struggle with society’s expectations.
The consequences of bucking societal expectations
The consequences of bucking societal expectations can be significant. When a character stands up for their individual beliefs, they often face criticism from their society and may even be ostracized or punished for doing so. In literature, this can lead to characters feeling alienated from their communities and feeling like they are alone in their struggles. In some cases, going against the grain can result in physical or mental punishment, such as imprisonment or torture.
The Struggle for Power
How societal systems, such as government or religion, can determine one’s fate
Societal systems can play a significant role in determining one’s fate. For example, in some societies, government officials are able to dictate what individuals can and cannot do. This type of power is often used to control the population and ensure that everyone follows the same set of rules. Similarly, in religious societies, followers are often expected to obey the dictates of their faith without question. This type of power can be used to limit individual expression and enforce conformity.
Examples of characters who challenge those in power
In many works of literature, there are examples of characters who confront those in power and challenge the status quo. In Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Offred is a character who stands up to her oppressive government and fights for her individual freedom. Similarly, in George Orwell’s 1984 Winston Smith is a character who rebels against the oppressive regime of Big Brother. In J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series, Harry Potter is an example of a character who boldly stands up to those in power and fights for his beliefs.
The outcome of these power struggles
The outcome of these power struggles can be significant. In some cases, characters who confront those in power and challenge the status quo are able to achieve their goals. For example, in Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Offred is a character who stands up to her oppressive government and fights for her individual freedom. Similarly, in George Orwell’s 1984 Winston Smith is a character who rebels against the oppressive regime of Big Brother and manages to escape. In other cases, characters may face serious consequences for their actions, such as imprisonment or execution.
The Fight for Social Justice
The roles of race, class, and gender in societal norms
In many works of literature, the roles of race, class, and gender can play a major role in how characters grapple with societal norms. For example, in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is an individual who stands up for what he believes is right despite facing opposition from his community based on his race. Similarly, in J.D Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield is a character who struggles with society’s expectations of him due to his class and gender.
Examples of characters who fight for social justice
In many works of literature, there are examples of characters who fight for social justice. In Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a character who stands up for what he believes is right despite the racism and prejudice in his community. Similarly, in J.D Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield is a character who struggles with society’s expectations of him due to his class and gender. In Toni Morrison’s novel Beloved, Sethe is a character who fights against the injustice of slavery and racism.
The impact of these fights on society
The fight for social justice can have a profound impact on society. When characters challenge the status quo, they can often inspire change and progress. For example, Atticus Finch’s stand against racism in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird led to greater awareness of the issue and helped to spark important conversations about racial equality. Similarly, Holden Caulfield’s challenge to gender roles in J.D Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye shed light on the issue of gender inequality.
The Repercussions of Rebellion
The price to pay for defying social norms
The price to pay for defying social norms can be high. In many works of literature, characters who challenge the status quo often face severe repercussions. For example, in Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Offred is punished for her rebellious attitude and ultimately has to flee the country in order to preserve her life. Similarly, in George Orwell’ s 1984 Winston Smith is tortured and killed for his attempt to rebel against Big Brother.
Examples of characters who face consequences for their actions
In many works of literature, there are examples of characters who face severe consequences for their actions. In Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Offred is punished for her rebellious attitude and ultimately has to flee the country in order to preserve her life. Similarly, in George Orwell’ s 1984 Winston Smith is tortured and killed for his attempt to rebel against Big Brother. In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Jay Gatsby is a character who faces death due to the consequences of his actions, which were ultimately caused by his desire to attain wealth and status in society.
The message behind these repercussions
The message behind these repercussions is clear: defying social norms can come with a heavy price. In many works of literature, characters who challenge the status quo often face severe consequences for their actions. Whether it be imprisonment, death, or exile from society, the dangers of rebellion are made painfully evident in these stories. These cautionary tales serve as a reminder that there are powerful forces at work in society, and that it is best to follow the rules.
Conclusion
The examination of character versus society is an important part of literature. It allows us to explore the complex relationship between individuals and their social environment and to analyze how characters respond to societal pressures. Through looking at examples such as Atticus Finch, Holden Caulfield, Sethe, Offred, and Winston Smith we can draw conclusions about power structures and the consequences of challenging them. We can also see that, while it may be tempting to rebel against social norms, doing so can come with a heavy price.
