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Essay / Strangers coming to town: themes and symbolism
Imagine a small, peaceful town, where the lives of its inhabitants are suddenly disrupted by the arrival of strangers. This is the premise of “The Strangers That Came To Town,” a short story that addresses themes of prejudice, fear and the transformative power of human relationships. In this essay, we will analyze key elements of the story, such as its plot, characters, and symbolism, to better understand its message. Ultimately, we will argue that the presence of outsiders challenges preconceptions of the city, leading to personal growth and a reassessment of the importance of community. Say no to plagiarism. Get a Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the Original EssayThe plot of “The Strangers Who Came to Town” centers on the arrival of a group of strangers who disrupt the established order of the city. At first, the locals are filled with suspicion and fear, as they perceive the outsiders as a threat to their way of life. This initial reaction highlights the theme of prejudice, with townspeople judging foreigners based solely on their unfamiliarity. However, as the story progresses, we see a change in the attitude of the locals, who begin to view the outsiders as individuals with their own stories and struggles. The characters in the story play a crucial role in illustrating the transformative power of human connections. For example, the protagonist, John, initially shares the townspeople's distrust of outsiders. However, his encounters with one of the strangers, a young girl named Sarah, force him to confront his prejudices and reevaluate his beliefs. Through their interactions, John learns to see beyond the surface and recognize the common humanity that binds them all. This character development highlights the story's underlying message of empathy and understanding. Symbolism is used throughout "The Strangers Who Came to Town" to enhance its themes. A significant symbol is the dilapidated house inhabited by foreigners, which represents the marginalized status of foreigners in society. The house is a physical manifestation of the city's prejudices, highlighting the stark contrast between the comfortable lives of townspeople and the outsiders' struggle for acceptance. Additionally, the act of repairing the house symbolizes the healing and reconciliation that takes place between townspeople and outsiders, symbolizing the potential for personal growth and community harmony. Additionally, the story explores the theme of fear and the destructive consequences it can have on individuals and communities. Locals' initial fear of outsiders leads to isolation and hostility, perpetuating a cycle of prejudice and misunderstanding. However, once the outsiders' stories are revealed, fear is gradually replaced by empathy, eventually leading to a sense of unity among the townspeople. This exploration of fear and its transformation into compassion highlights the importance of overcoming our own fears and prejudices to foster a more inclusive society. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay As reviewed in this essay, “The Strangers That Came To Town” is a powerful short story that explores themes of prejudice, fear, and the transformative power of human connection. Through its plot, characters, and symbolism, the story challenges the reader to think about their own preconceptions and the importance of empathy in fostering understanding and unity. By welcoming..