How Does Chris Mccandless Exploit The Search For Identity

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William Shakespeare once said, “We know what we are, but not what we may be.” This quote is extremely relevant and relatable to a plethora of literature seen from today and the past, including my selected texts. I have investigated four texts that signify and exploit the search for identity collectively. These being, the film ‘Into the Wild’ by Sean Penn, novels ‘1984’ by George Orwell and ‘Fahrenheit 451’ by Ray Bradbury, and the memoir ‘Walden’ by Henry David Thoreau. These texts all display a search for identity due to the conformities of society. Not only connected through this, sub connections were also interpreted between them. The conforms of society initiating the protagonists void from civilisation in search of identity is apparent …show more content…

This connection is illustrated through the film, ‘Into the Wild’ by Sean Penn. Chris McCandless aspires to live by transcendentalist ideals, to lead an independent, adventurous life. However, the explicit materialism that exists within middle class suburban America deprives him of this opportunity. Early on in the film McCandless is quick to reveal his transcendentalist morals of simplicity and non conformity as he has a conflicting conversation with his family. “I don't want a new car”, “I don't want anything. All these things things, things, things.” This confirms Chris’ non materialistic trait, and illustrates his struggle to escape the restraints of societies expectations. Followed by, “Why, are you worried what the neighbours might think?” further suggests he is in disagreement with the conformities of society, and evidently isn't worried about other characters opinions of him. His identity and aspired characteristics contradict what his parents and wider community assume, which initiates his immense feeling of dislocation. This sparks Chris’ desire for an independant, pure life of adventure. Incapable of dealing with human connection the protagonist sacrifices a prestigious and profitable career, and abandons all of his possessions, friends, and family as he ventures into the abyss of the Alaskan Wilderness, all in …show more content…

Protagonist, Winston Smith, lives within a futuristic, corrupt and controlling society which has created a collective mindset of ignorance, much alike Montag from Fahrenheit 451. Both novels provide an insightful estimate of the possible future societies, and collectively display corruption, control and manipulation of people and information. Winston, and the rest of the community are watched voyeuristically by ‘The Party’, and their omniscient leader known as Big Brother. “They never become aware that they are oppressed,” as Television screens are located in each room advertising a constant stream of propaganda designed to manipulate the people into thinking The Party is a positive influence on society. In connection with Fahrenheit 451, their dystopian society is also surrounded by ‘parlour walls’ in each of their rooms. ‘Parlour walls’ are tv screens utilised to manipulate the people, distract them from their miserable lives and control the information available to citizens. In addition to manipulation, 1984s screens also monitor the communities behavior which suggests the lack of trust between society and the government, causing a corrupt relationship. Citizens are continuously watched and reminded, “Big Brother is watching you”, to reiterate that the authorities are scrutinizing

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