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Roles and responsibilities play a significant role in shaping human behavior and decision-making. In society, the work we engage in, the responsibilities we shoulder, and the decisions we make are often guided by the roles we assume. This dynamic interplay between roles and actions is a central theme explored in the short story "Lather and Nothing Else." In this essay, we will delve into the narrative to examine how the characters' roles determine their actions and how this theme resonates in the context of contemporary society.
Within the confines of the short story, the character of Captain Torres exemplifies how one's role can profoundly influence their actions.
Captain Torres is portrayed as a ruthless enforcer of authority, tasked with suppressing revolutionary forces. His identity is intricately tied to his role as a military officer responsible for maintaining order and quelling dissent.
One pivotal moment that underscores the relationship between roles and actions is when Captain Torres discusses his past actions regarding the revolutionaries: "Some of them we brought back dead; others are still alive.
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But they'll all be dead. Not one will escape; not a single one" (Tellez 35). These words reflect Torres's unwavering commitment to his role as a military leader. His actions are not driven by personal choice or moral considerations but rather by the duties imposed by his position. Torres embodies the archetype of a dictator, and his role dictates his actions - in this case, the execution of revolutionaries.
Similarly, the barber in the story grapples with the influence of his profession on his actions.
As the town barber, his role is defined by the responsibility to provide grooming services, including shaving. This duty becomes particularly challenging when Captain Torres, the very symbol of oppression, sits in his barber's chair. The barber's internal struggle is palpable as he contemplates the ethical dilemma of whether to kill or spare Captain Torres, a man responsible for the deaths of many revolutionaries.
The barber's internal monologue reveals the extent to which his role as a barber shapes his actions: "I would have to shave his beard just like any other, carefully, neatly, just as though he were a good customer, taking heed that not a single pore should emit a drop of blood" (Tellez 36). Here, the barber's sense of duty and professionalism override his personal emotions and desires. His role as a barber compels him to perform his job meticulously, irrespective of the moral quandary he faces.
The exploration of how roles determine actions in "Lather and Nothing Else" resonates with the complexities of contemporary society. In the modern world, individuals often find themselves bound by their roles and responsibilities, whether in their professional careers, family roles, or societal roles. These roles can significantly influence the decisions people make and the actions they take.
For instance, consider the role of a healthcare professional. A doctor, guided by their role and ethical obligations, must prioritize the well-being of their patients above all else. This role-based commitment may lead them to make difficult decisions, even when faced with personal moral dilemmas.
Similarly, the role of a judge in the legal system necessitates impartiality and adherence to the law, even if it means passing a sentence that personally conflicts with their values. The role itself dictates the actions taken within the bounds of the justice system.
Moreover, in the corporate world, executives and managers are often tasked with making decisions that align with the financial interests of their companies. This role-driven decision-making can sometimes clash with individual values or ethical considerations.
The short story "Lather and Nothing Else" by Hernando Téllez serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the interplay between roles and actions. Through the characters of Captain Torres and the barber, the narrative illustrates how individuals' roles can exert a profound influence on their decisions and behaviors.
This theme extends beyond the confines of fiction and remains relevant in contemporary society, where individuals are continually shaped and constrained by their roles and responsibilities. Whether as professionals, parents, or citizens, people grapple with the tension between personal values and the demands of their roles, ultimately navigating the complex terrain where roles determine actions.
The Influence of Roles on Actions in "Lather and Nothing Else". (2016, Dec 28). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/lather-and-nothing-else-short-story-by-tellez-essay
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