Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Social Issues Response: The Help

In the book "The Help" written by Kathryn Stockett, the main social issue, racism, is treated in many different ways based on the point of view of the characters. More specifically, it's not just racism that's the issue, it's the way the characters in the book interact based on what they should believe and what society asks of them, and how they morally feel about the issue.
One way the characters interact based on what society says you should believe in is the relationship between the white owners of the homes, and the cleaning ladies. For example, Aibileen gets along with Ms. Skeeter extremely well because Ms. Skeeter is different then what the stereotypical white lady of the house that is expected from everyone in that time period. What's expected from society is that black people are treated poorly and should be given no attention by the whites. But as Ms. Skeeter treats Aibileen with respect, and talks to her nicely, it shows how much stronger and independent she is then the rest of society during that time period. Even when you see how she talks and interacts at her bridge games with all the other plantation owning white ladies, she's different. She's more independent, she doesn't let society bully her into treating blacks the way the rest of them do. It shows that she's smarter, and has the guts to decide for herself what's right and wrong. It shows heart and awareness and even though she is just 22, she can already distinguish what's right and wrong.
In conclusion, the social issue of racism is treated differently then a stereotypical book written in the South during that time period. The relationship that Aibileen and Ms. Skeeter develop is a beautiful and inspiring relationship that teaches everyone to rebel against society, especially when deep down, you know what society is doing is morally wrong.

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