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In Lois Lowry's dystopian novel "The Giver," Lily's character serves as a representation of a typical child growing up in the meticulously controlled community. Through her interactions, observations, and development, Lily highlights the consequences of a society that suppresses individuality, emotions, and critical thinking in favor of conformity and uniformity.
Lily's initial innocence and naivety align with the community's emphasis on uniformity and suppression of emotions. Her enthusiasm for the comfort objects she receives, such as her stuffed elephant, showcases the community's careful manipulation of childhood experiences to maintain sameness.
Lily's lack of understanding of concepts like "release" and "stirrings" reflects the intentional ignorance fostered by the community to ensure compliance and prevent questioning.
As Lily grows older, her interactions with her older brother, Jonas, offer insights into the restricted nature of their upbringing. Despite the close relationship between the siblings, Lily parrots the community's values by casually dismissing her father's work as a "Nurturer" for the elderly and dying, showing the detachment instilled in children from an early age.
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“ Amazing as always, gave her a week to finish a big assignment and came through way ahead of time. ”
Her casual acceptance of life's predetermined paths highlights the absence of curiosity and critical thinking in their controlled environment.
Lily's role as a typical child becomes particularly evident during the Ceremony of Twelve when she receives her assignment as a "Birthmother." Her unquestioning acceptance of her assigned role demonstrates the ingrained obedience within the society. While her role is significant in perpetuating the community's cycle, it also reflects the limited agency granted to individuals, especially children, in choosing their paths.
Moreover, Lily's character underscores the community's suppression of individuality and emotions.
Her lack of understanding regarding the uniqueness of colors and her casual disregard for the concept of "seeing beyond" exemplify the controlled environment's stifling of creativity and genuine emotions. The community's conditioning to perceive the world in a specific way prevents Lily and others from experiencing life's richness and complexity.
Lily's role as a typical child serves as a contrast to Jonas's awakening and rebellion against the controlled environment. While Jonas questions the community's values and seeks the truth, Lily remains emblematic of the broader society's passive acceptance. Her experiences highlight the stark contrast between a life of ignorance and conformity versus the potential for individuality, growth, and genuine connections.
In conclusion, Lily's character in "The Giver" embodies the role of a typical child growing up in a highly controlled community. Through her interactions, observations, and choices, Lily serves as a reflection of the consequences of suppressing individuality, emotions, and critical thinking. Her experiences illustrate the stark contrast between the society's enforced sameness and the potential for individual growth and awareness that comes from questioning, exploring, and embracing the complexities of the world.
Exploring Lily's Role as a Typical Child in the Controlled Community of "The Giver".. (2023, Aug 25). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/exploring-lilys-role-as-a-typical-child-in-the-controlled-community-of-the-giver-essay
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