This Essay On The Short Story Of Clay We Are Created

This essay is on the short story And of Clay We Are Created, and the Cha

This essay is on the short story "And of Clay We Are Created," and the character Rolf from the story. All evidence must come from the short story. The Norton Introduction to Literature emphasizes that evaluating an author's ability to create memorable characters is a key aspect of literary study. Characters can be categorized as flat—two-dimensional and resistant to change—or round—three-dimensional with vulnerability to transformation.

Authors such as Isabel Allende, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Edgar Allan Poe, Alissa Nutting, and James Joyce depict a range of flat and round characters. For this essay, select either a round or a flat character from one of their stories and describe the character's qualities or traits. Develop a clear, arguable thesis that identifies the character and describes their attributes, such as patience, compassion, or loyalty, as exhibited in the story.

Your claim must be debatable and supported by detailed evidence from the text, including quotations and paraphrases. Structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion to provide clarity and focus. Address the needs and expectations of your academic audience with cohesive language, linking sections clearly.

Maintain a formal and objective tone, adhering to standard English conventions and MLA formatting guidelines, including in-text citations, a Works Cited page, one-inch margins, double spacing, and a 12-point Times New Roman or Calibri font. The essay should be approximately [specified word count] words in length.

Paper For Above instruction

"And of Clay We Are Created" by Isabel Allende is a profound short story that vividly depicts the character of Rolf Carle, a dedicated television reporter, and his complex personality traits. Rolf's character offers a compelling example of a round character due to his multi-faceted nature, vulnerability, and capacity for change. Through a close examination of his actions, thoughts, and interactions within the narrative, we can explore the attributes that define him and how he embodies humanity's struggles and compassion.

Rolf Carle's character is primarily portrayed through his unwavering dedication to capturing and sharing stories of human suffering, exemplifying his commitment and sense of responsibility. From the outset, Rolf demonstrates patience and perseverance in his efforts to film the tragic events unfolding during the volcanic eruption in Chile. His persistence signifies his deep compassion for the victims and his desire to bring their plight to the world's attention. For instance, when Rolf is initially hesitant to approach Azucena, the girl trapped in the mudslide, he ultimately shows patience and determination, understanding that her story is vital for raising awareness. This patience highlights his empathetic nature, reinforcing that he does not pursue journalism merely for fame but to serve a higher moral purpose.

Moreover, Rolf’s emotional vulnerability is evident in his reactions and internal monologues, revealing a character capable of profound empathy and internal conflict. His interactions with Azucena, especially during the moments when she is on the verge of death, reveal not only his professional concern but also his personal anguish. His grief and helplessness in her presence underscore his roundness as a character, showing that beneath his professional exterior lies a deeply emotional individual who is profoundly affected by human suffering. Such vulnerability makes Rolf more relatable and humanizes his character, aligning with Forster’s concept of round characters who evolve through exposure to life's hardships.

Throughout the story, Rolf’s capacity for change is also evident. His confrontation with his own emotional limits, especially when he recalls his past experiences and reflects on his career, indicates an evolving understanding of himself and his purpose. His inner dialogue reveals a transformation from detached observer to emotionally engaged participant, signifying a significant character development that illustrates his vulnerability and humanity. This shift exemplifies the characteristic of a round character, as Rolf's identity becomes less fixed and more fluid through the course of the narrative.

In conclusion, Isabel Allende’s Rolf Carle exemplifies a round character through his multifaceted personality, emotional vulnerability, and capacity for growth. His patience, compassion, and internal struggles are vividly depicted in the story, making him a memorable and realistic figure that embodies the complexities of human experience. This portrayal aligns with literary theories that emphasize character depth and evolution, illustrating how authors craft characters who resonate deeply with readers by reflecting authentic human qualities.

References

• Allende, Isabel. "And of Clay We Are Created." In The Norton Introduction to Literature, edited by Kelly J. Mays, 12th Edition, W. W. Norton & Company, 2018.
• Forster, E. M.. "Aspects of the Novel." Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1927.
• Fitzgerald, F. Scott. "The Great Gatsby." Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925.
• Hemingway, Ernest. "The Old Man and the Sea." Charles Scribner's Sons, 1952.
• Joyce, James. "Dubliners." Grant Richards, 1914.
• Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Tell-Tale Heart." 1843.
• Nutting, Alissa. "Tampa." Macmillan, 2013.
• Nguyen, Viet Thanh. "The Sympathizer." Grove Press, 2015.
• Allende, Isabel. "Portrait in Sepia." Knopf, 2000.
• Hassan, Ihab. "The Literature of Silence." University of Wisconsin Press, 1982.