Nevertheless, this is only speculation. We don't know for sure that exposing the unfortunate truth of the past will instantly cure kids of their desire to attack others. In fact, might it not produce an opposite effect? Here in America, nothing is shielded from children. We grow up with a sense of entitlement; the feel that we have a right to know whatever we want, regardless of boundaries. It is an accepted component of American society, along with the tendency to constantly compete with others. Therefore, "The History Teacher" stanza on bullying children can impart the idea that violence is a vital part of history that will remain for evermore.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Violence in Humans
In "The History Teacher", Billy Collins allows us to perceive the teacher as harmless and eccentric. The educator is immune to tragedy and is a comical character for the students as he can see only the benefits of protecting their innocence. This leads to the serious message of the piece which conveys that he fails to see the potential evil in his students. The cruel children of the playground are preparing themselves for the future in which they too can perpetuate crimes against humanity. Perhaps if the children had been taught properly about the past and the consequences of violence, they would not have been so eager to behave so harshly towards others portrayed as inferior to them.
Nevertheless, this is only speculation. We don't know for sure that exposing the unfortunate truth of the past will instantly cure kids of their desire to attack others. In fact, might it not produce an opposite effect? Here in America, nothing is shielded from children. We grow up with a sense of entitlement; the feel that we have a right to know whatever we want, regardless of boundaries. It is an accepted component of American society, along with the tendency to constantly compete with others. Therefore, "The History Teacher" stanza on bullying children can impart the idea that violence is a vital part of history that will remain for evermore.
Nevertheless, this is only speculation. We don't know for sure that exposing the unfortunate truth of the past will instantly cure kids of their desire to attack others. In fact, might it not produce an opposite effect? Here in America, nothing is shielded from children. We grow up with a sense of entitlement; the feel that we have a right to know whatever we want, regardless of boundaries. It is an accepted component of American society, along with the tendency to constantly compete with others. Therefore, "The History Teacher" stanza on bullying children can impart the idea that violence is a vital part of history that will remain for evermore.
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Anita, what you say is truly haunting. I love how you developed the many meanings of the piece.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you have said. In America, we do have a sense of entitlement that could be a detriment for us. It is also true that even if the children do not know the true meanings behind history that violence would disappear entirely. Great development Anita:)
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