Quote- “Their plight was known only to the six men in this ridiculously little boat, whose responsibility now was to prove that all the laws of chance were wrong—and return with help.”
Discussion- This quote blatantly displays the immensity of the task that lay before the men aboard the Caird. This mission is the entire expedition’s last hope. If the crew fails, all the men will die. Shackleton’s immense ego has been worn down throughout the journey, and now he doubts himself and his ability to successfully complete the mission. As a round character, he has changed from being strong, determined, and purposeful to being tired, doubtful, and apprehensive. Ice is at the moment the crew’s biggest worry. Any decent collision could immediately end their journey. Another problem was the constant splashing and spraying of water onto the boat and the men. Life at sea on the small boat was quite uncomfortable indeed. The men were constantly freezing, wet, and sore. The winds and the weather are strong and merciless. The focal point of existence was concentrated into a matter of a few hours. The men no longer thought of the future, solely the task at hand. Both the men’s lower extremities and the navigational books were dangerously soaked through. By the end of April, the men were almost one-third of the way. Unfortunately, a coating of ice was growing on everything.
Literary Term: round character- Shackleton is an example, as his character and personality has changed drastically as the novel has progressed.
Nina, Bravo on the "round character" and discussing how Shackelton has changed! His strong, determined, and purposeful attitude has indeed been worn down like those of the men's, yet, he is the one who will bring them back. Kind of like the epiphany he experiences in the storm. Wow.
ReplyDeleteBravo,
Mrs. S