Note: Your teacher will grade your response to question 19 to ensure that you receive proper credit for your answer. 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. Select the link to access the English Essay Rubric.
In the unit, two other worlds are described, namely the magical world of Narnia in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" and the dystopian society of Panem in "The Hunger Games". Although both other worlds have a profound impact on the characters, the ways in which they influence the real world differ significantly.
Firstly, the magical world of Narnia in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" brings a sense of hope and wonder to the characters. Upon entering Narnia through the wardrobe, the Pevensie children are transported to a land where animals talk, mythical creatures exist, and magic is abundant. This world not only gives the children a break from their ordinary lives, but also allows them to discover their own strengths and courage. Through their journey in Narnia, they learn important life lessons such as loyalty, bravery, and resilience. Consequently, their experiences in Narnia shape their characters and help them grow as individuals in the real world. For example, Lucy's encounters with Aslan teach her the value of honesty and the importance of standing up for what is right, which she later applies in her relationships with others.
On the other hand, the dystopian society of Panem in "The Hunger Games" has a much darker impact on the characters. Panem is a brutal and oppressive world ruled by a totalitarian government where the majority of people face poverty and starvation while the elite enjoy luxuries. For the characters living in Panem, the weight of survival dominates their lives, and their actions are dictated by the fear of punishment from the Capitol. The Hunger Games themselves, where children are forced to fight to the death for entertainment, serve as a constant reminder of the cruelty and injustice prevalent in Panem. Consequently, the characters in this world are stripped of their humanity and forced to make difficult choices in order to survive. Katniss Everdeen, the protagonist, is thrust into this other world and becomes a symbol of resistance against the oppressive regime. Her actions spark rebellion and inspire hope among the oppressed citizens. Through her experiences in Panem, she learns the importance of sacrifice, loyalty, and the power of unity, which she brings back to the real world, fueling the uprising against the Capitol.
In summary, both Narnia and Panem provide alternate realms that impact the real world for the characters. Narnia allows the characters to develop important qualities and transform their lives positively, while Panem exposes the characters to adversity and pushes them to fight against injustice. Through these contrasting other worlds, the characters gain valuable insights and experiences that shape their actions and influence the real world in different ways.