Choose two of the “other worlds” described in the unit. Compare and contrast the ways these other worlds impacted the real world for the characters. The stories that you must compare and contrast are "Nethergrave" and "Sound of Thunder"
The "other worlds" described in the unit are the virtual reality world in the story "Nethergrave" and the prehistoric world in the story "Sound of Thunder." While both these worlds differ greatly, they impact the real world for the characters in various ways.
In "Nethergrave," the other world is an immersive virtual reality game called the Nethergrave. Jeremy, the main character, escapes from his real-world loneliness and bullying by entering the Nethergrave. This alternate world allows him to create an online persona where he is powerful and admired. However, this virtual escape prevents Jeremy from facing his real-life problems or developing real relationships. Consequently, the impact of the Nethergrave on Jeremy is both positive, as it provides an escape and a sense of purpose, and negative, as it isolates him from the real world and hinders his personal growth.
On the other hand, in "Sound of Thunder," the other world is a prehistoric jungle that time travelers visit using a specially designed time machine. The impact of this world on the characters is primarily negative. The protagonist, Eckels, ignores the warnings of the tour guide and accidentally steps off the designated path. This seemingly insignificant act alters the course of history, causing significant changes upon his return to the present. Eckels realizes too late that his actions in the prehistoric world have resulted in a dystopian future. Thus, the other world in "Sound of Thunder" serves as a cautionary tale about the interconnectedness of actions and the potential catastrophic consequences they can have on the real world.
In terms of comparison, both other worlds offer an escape from the real world. In "Nethergrave," Jeremy finds solace and purpose in the virtual reality realm, while in "Sound of Thunder," the time travel experience provides a thrilling adventure for Eckels. However, the impacts of these escapes differ significantly. In "Nethergrave," the consequences for Jeremy are mostly internal, affecting his personal growth and relationships. In contrast, in "Sound of Thunder," Eckels' actions in the prehistoric world have significant external consequences, altering the course of history and resulting in a bleak future.
In summary, while both "Nethergrave" and "Sound of Thunder" present other worlds as a means of escape for the characters, the impacts on the real world for the characters differ greatly. "Nethergrave" explores the isolation and stunted personal growth caused by escaping into a virtual reality, whereas "Sound of Thunder" warns about the potential catastrophic consequences of altering the past.