(no subject)
The word class is extremely vague in its definition. "A number of people forming a group by reason of common characteristics" could mean just about anything, from an Honors English class to a wealthy upper class.
Run on sentence. Try: The definition of class is extremely vague: "A number of people forming a group by reason of common characteristics". It could mean just about anything from an honors English class to a wealthy upper class.
High school by its very nature, is an extreme microcosm of the social classes waiting for us when we leave school graduate . We segregate ourselves into self sufficient groups like a bunch of jailbirds. Much like the way Pip felt ashamed to have his old pal Joe around because of his "commonness", the normal student would cringe at the thought of sitting at a different lunch table. The fact is, these two novels are the perfect books for Honors students to read. I believe we have the unique ability to see above judgements and stereotypes, which is a theme of both books. I have constantly noticed that the label society places on us are left outside at the door of the Honors classroom. The theater geeks and the jocks are now just students with a passion for language arts.
In this respect, our class most resembles Wuthering Heights. In this Emily Brontë novel, there is what appears to be a lack of a social system. Heathcliff was "lower class" and looked down upon as a child by Hindley. When he left, he could have made of himself whatever he chose, but instead created a future rife with greed, cruelty, and most of all, vengeance. There is not a drop of sympathy to be had for Heathcliff. (You seem to explain the social classes which you said are not there?)Catherine and Cathy grew to be strong willed yet very dependant individuals. They lived boldly, but needed another person's approval. For example, Cathy had the tenacity to sneak out of her house, but why? Just out of pure guilt that Linton needed her for his survival, and more importantly, she needed him. There was obviously a lack of social structure because of the two houses’ isolation. In Yorkshire, the lack of input from the outside world gives one the aptitude to form their own opinions, learn their own lessons, and live their lives the way that they fancy.
In Great Expectations, written by Charles Dickens, the theme is quite the opposite. Both novels take place in 19th century England, but this is where the similarities end. This story is similar to a level II class, in which the ranks of popularity prevail. There is a necessity to conform in the classroom. Maybe you can explain why? Lots of potential here...maybe level 2 students (the majority of the school, i think) are trying to prove something about themselves? trying to impress, more than an honors student would? Pip would agree, being one to climb the social ladders. He eventually comes to grow in every way a person can grow. Unlike in Wuthering Heights, Pip is influenced by those around him. Ultimately, this causes him act the way he thinks others would like him to act. Okay, just pinked this 'cause it reminds me of days
It is soon discovered that class means nothing after death. In the end, the wealthy Miss Havisham and the desperately heartbroken Heathcliff are both reduced to corpses. Indeed, death is the great leveler, and everyone is buried in the same soil. The fact that an honors student can appriciate this and relate to these books shows how good of a choice they truly are. FIX THIS JAWN