Comparing Fischer and Hall

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In the novel, Into Thin Air, Krakauer frequently elaborates on the differences and similarities of Scott Fischer and Rob Hall. A prominent difference between Rob Hall and Scott Fischer is their leadership styles. In particular, Hall’s leadership style compares to be considerably more stringent the Fischer’s. As Krakauer emphasizes, “. . . he poured over reams of computer print outs detailing logistical minutiae: menus, spare parts, tools, medicine . . . yak availability” (95). This evidence shows how planned out and particular Rob’s group is portrayed. Shown again here, “Hall ran the tightest, safest operation on the mountain. Bar none.” (353). His company is referred to as the safest on the mountain which cannot be obtained without many regulations that are strictly enforced. In much opposition, Fischer has dynamic and easy going leadership style. A basic representation of this is, “Fischer believed in giving his clients free reign to go up and down the mountain independently during the acclimatization period.” (141). I believe Fischer has good intentions, but when dealing with climbers of callow experience, more control should be necessary. A situation in which his lax leadership causes problems is how he never even vaguely establishes a turnaround time. It’s a surmise idea but if everyone on the mountain has been given a correct turnaround time, many lives may have been saved. Granted, Rob Hall never establishes a concrete turnaround time either. Rob’s uptight and Scott’s relaxed leadership styles is a noted difference between the two men. Yet another difference is their overarching personality type. A key point is Hall’s governing and dead set attitude. Krakauer describes him as, “A compulsively methodical man. . .” (353). Th... ... middle of paper ... ...to wherever they were and make sure they were treated. He also ignores his own disease and ill condition to insure the clients have a shot at the summit. This may be viewed as foolishness but this type of self-sacrifice is something rare and admirable. In conclusion, both men have a usual connection to climbing. From these examples, the similarities and differences of Rob Hall and Scott Fischer are revealed. It is important to note that because Krakauer is on Hall’s team, he is often biased towards him making it impossible to know what they were really like. It would be obscene to try and distinguish which of them is a better man. They both had a high respect for each other which allowed them to work together and made them admirable. Works Cited Krakauer, Jon. Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster. New York: Villard, 1997. Print.

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