Shooting an elephant commonlit answers – Shooting an Elephant: CommonLit Answers and Analysis provides a comprehensive exploration of George Orwell’s iconic short story, offering insightful answers to CommonLit questions and a thorough analysis of the text’s themes, characters, and historical context.
This in-depth guide delves into the ethical dilemmas, symbolism, and imperialism prevalent in the story, providing a deeper understanding of Orwell’s critique of colonialism and the complexities of human nature.
Introduction
George Orwell’s “Shooting an Elephant” is a powerful and haunting short story that explores the complex themes of imperialism, colonialism, and ethical dilemmas. Set in Burma during the British colonial era, the story follows the narrator, a British police officer, as he is tasked with shooting a rogue elephant that has killed a villager.
The Elephant’s Behavior
The elephant in the story is described as being “huge and ragged” with “great mud-clotted feet.” Its behavior is erratic and unpredictable, and it has become a threat to the local villagers. The elephant’s behavior is a result of its being separated from its herd and its subsequent loss of fear of humans.
The Narrator’s Perspective
The narrator is a British police officer who is tasked with shooting the elephant. He is a reluctant participant in the event, and he is deeply conflicted about his role. The narrator’s perspective is one of guilt and shame, and he is haunted by the memory of the elephant’s death.
Imperialism and Colonialism
The story is set against the backdrop of British imperialism and colonialism in Burma. The narrator’s presence in Burma is a symbol of the British Empire’s power and control over the region. The story explores the impact of imperialism on both the colonizers and the colonized, and it raises questions about the ethics of empire.
Symbolism and Imagery
The story is rich in symbolism and imagery. The elephant is a symbol of the wild and untamed forces of nature, while the narrator represents the forces of civilization and order. The story’s setting in Burma is also symbolic, as it represents the clash between two different worlds.
Ethical Dilemmas, Shooting an elephant commonlit answers
The story raises a number of ethical dilemmas, including the question of whether or not it is right to kill an animal for the sake of human safety. The narrator is faced with a difficult choice, and he ultimately decides to shoot the elephant.
However, his decision is not an easy one, and he is haunted by the memory of the elephant’s death.
Impact and Legacy
The story has had a profound impact on readers and critics alike. It is considered to be one of Orwell’s most powerful and moving works, and it has been praised for its exploration of complex themes such as imperialism, colonialism, and ethical dilemmas.
The story continues to be relevant to contemporary issues, and it is a valuable resource for understanding the complex history of British imperialism.
Q&A: Shooting An Elephant Commonlit Answers
What is the significance of the elephant in the story?
The elephant symbolizes the destructive power of imperialism and the futility of violence.
How does the narrator’s perspective shape the story?
The narrator’s conflicted feelings and sense of duty provide a nuanced perspective on the ethical dilemmas of colonialism.
What are the ethical issues raised by the story?
The story raises questions about the morality of killing, the responsibility of authority, and the consequences of imperialism.
