How does the writer expose the main character in button button by Richard matheson
In the short story "Button, Button" by Richard Matheson, the writer exposes the main character, Norma Lewis, through her thoughts, actions, and dialogue. Here are a few ways in which the writer reveals the main character:
1. Inner Thoughts: The writer allows the reader to gain insight into Norma's thoughts and emotions. For example, when the couple receives the box with the mysterious button, Norma initially considers pushing it but then dismisses the idea. However, the story mentions, "Her mind burned with the image. Push the button. There was the smell of something she couldn't recognize; there was the sight of something she couldn't see." These inner thoughts indicate Norma's curiosity and inner conflict.
2. Actions: The writer exposes Norma through her actions. When her husband, Arthur, poses the hypothetical question of whether she would push the button for $50,000, Norma initially hesitates but later decides to push it. This action demonstrates Norma's willingness to sacrifice another person's life for financial gain, highlighting her morally ambiguous nature.
3. Dialogue: The writer showcases Norma's character through her dialogue, revealing her motivations and values. When Norma tries persuading Arthur to push the button, she says, "We might as well get something out of it. If we're gonna kill somebody, we might as well be comfortable." This dialogue underscores Norma's greedy and self-centered nature, placing more importance on material wealth than human life.
Overall, through Norma's thoughts, actions, and dialogue, the writer exposes her motivations, inner conflicts, and moral ambiguity, providing a comprehensive understanding of the main character in "Button, Button."
In the short story "Button, Button" by Richard Matheson, the main character is exposed through the following steps:
1. Introduction of the main character: The story begins by introducing the main character, Arthur Lewis, and his wife, Norma. They are a typical middle-class couple living in a suburban neighborhood.
2. Setting: The story is set in a seemingly ordinary neighborhood, which helps establish a sense of normalcy for the characters. This setting contrasts with the mysterious events that unfold later in the story.
3. Introduction of the conflict: The main conflict is introduced when Norma receives a visit from a stranger, Mr. Steward, who presents her with a mysterious box. He explains that if they press the button inside the box, they will receive a payment of $50,000, but someone they don't know will die.
4. Arthur's initial reaction: Initially, Arthur dismisses the idea and is against pressing the button. He expresses his concerns about the morality of such a decision, showing his ethical side and his values.
5. Arthur's evolving thoughts: Over time, Arthur starts to consider the idea more seriously. He brings up the subject with Norma, and they discuss the potential consequences of pressing the button. This shows Arthur's internal struggle as he grapples with the temptation of the money and the ethical implications.
6. Arthur's decision: Arthur eventually decides to press the button without discussing it further with Norma. This decision reveals his willingness to prioritize financial gain over ethical considerations.
7. Consequences of the decision: After pressing the button, they receive the money, but they soon discover that someone they don't know has died. This realization haunts them, particularly Arthur, who becomes consumed by guilt and paranoia.
8. Arthur's transformation: As the story unfolds, Arthur's guilt intensifies, and he becomes obsessed with finding out more about the consequences of pressing the button. This obsession exposes his descent into moral ambiguity and reveals his darker side.
9. Resolution: The story concludes with a twist when Mr. Steward informs Norma that someone they know was killed as a result of pressing the button. This revelation further exposes Arthur's flawed decision-making and the consequences of his actions.
Through these steps, Richard Matheson exposes the main character, Arthur Lewis, by presenting his moral dilemma, observing his decision-making, and revealing the consequences of his actions.