Definition of Dilemma
In literature, a dilemma is a rhetorical device that presents a character or situation with a difficult choice between two undesirable or equally desirable options. This device is often used to create tension and conflict within a story, as the character is forced to make a decision that may have significant consequences.
Dilemmas can take many forms, including ethical, moral, and personal dilemmas. Ethical dilemmas involve decisions that are based on moral principles or codes of conduct, while moral dilemmas involve decisions that are based on personal values or beliefs. Personal dilemmas involve decisions that are based on individual needs and desires.
One example of a dilemma in literature is the classic story of “Sophie’s Choice” by William Styron, in which the main character is forced to choose which of her two children will be sent to the gas chamber during the Holocaust. Another example is the dilemma faced by the character Hamlet in Shakespeare’s play, as he struggles with the decision of whether or not to avenge his father’s murder.
Dilemmas can also be used to explore complex themes and ideas in literature, such as the nature of morality, the consequences of actions, and the limits of human agency. They can be used to create suspense and tension, as well as to reveal the motivations and inner thoughts of characters.
Types of Dilemma in Literature
There are several different types of dilemmas that can be found in literature, including ethical dilemmas, moral dilemmas, and practical dilemmas.
Ethical Dilemma
An ethical dilemma is a situation in which a character must choose between two options, both of which have moral consequences. In other words, the character is faced with a decision that will have an impact on their sense of right and wrong. These types of dilemmas are often used to explore complex moral issues and to challenge the reader’s own ethical beliefs.
For example, in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment,” the main character, Raskolnikov, is faced with an ethical dilemma when he considers murdering a pawnbroker. On the one hand, he believes that the murder is justified because the pawnbroker is a cruel and selfish person who preys on the poor. On the other hand, he knows that taking another person’s life is wrong. This ethical dilemma forces Raskolnikov to question his own beliefs and to confront the consequences of his actions.
Moral Dilemma
A moral dilemma is similar to an ethical dilemma, but it focuses more on the character’s personal beliefs and values. In other words, the character is faced with a decision that will have an impact on their sense of self and their identity. These types of dilemmas are often used to explore the complexities of human nature and to challenge the reader’s own moral compass.
For example, in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter,” the main character, Hester Prynne, is faced with a moral dilemma when she is forced to wear a scarlet letter “A” on her chest as punishment for committing adultery. On the one hand, she believes that she has done nothing wrong and that the punishment is unjust. On the other hand, she knows that society will judge her harshly if she refuses to accept the punishment. This moral dilemma forces Hester to question her own beliefs and to confront the consequences of her actions.
Practical Dilemma
A practical dilemma is a situation in which a character must choose between two options, both of which have practical consequences. In other words, the character is faced with a decision that will have an impact on their daily life and their ability to achieve their goals. These types of dilemmas are often used to explore the challenges of everyday life and to challenge the reader’s own problem-solving skills.
For example, in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” the main character, Elizabeth Bennet, is faced with a practical dilemma when she must decide whether or not to accept a marriage proposal from Mr. Collins. On the one hand, she knows that marrying Mr. Collins would provide her with financial security and a comfortable life. On the other hand, she knows that she does not love him and that the marriage would be unhappy. This practical dilemma forces Elizabeth to consider her own priorities and to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Examples of Dilemma in Literature
Classic Literature
Classic literature is rich in examples of dilemma. In William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, the protagonist Hamlet is faced with the dilemma of whether to obey the ghost of his father and avenge his murder by killing his uncle, who has taken the throne and married his mother. Hamlet is torn between his duty to his father and his moral principles, and his indecision leads to tragic consequences.
Another example of dilemma in classic literature is found in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel Crime and Punishment. The main character, Raskolnikov, is faced with the dilemma of whether to kill a pawnbroker to prove his theory that some people are above the law or to spare her life and face the consequences of his poverty. Raskolnikov’s internal struggle and his eventual decision to confess to the murder create a gripping narrative.
Contemporary Literature
Contemporary literature also employs the use of dilemma to create complex and thought-provoking stories. In J.K. Rowling‘s Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the titular character is faced with the dilemma of whether to destroy the Horcruxes and defeat the evil Lord Voldemort or to sacrifice himself to save his friends and loved ones. Harry’s choice to sacrifice himself for the greater good is a powerful example of the dilemma device.
Another example of dilemma in contemporary literature is found in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. The character Tyrion Lannister is faced with the dilemma of whether to ally himself with his family and secure his own safety or to side with the more just and honorable characters and risk his life. Tyrion’s struggle to reconcile his loyalty to his family with his own sense of morality makes for a compelling narrative.
Role of Dilemma in Character Development
Dilemma is a powerful literary device that can be used to create conflict in a character’s decision-making process. It presents a situation where the character must make a difficult choice between two options, both of which have positive and negative consequences. This creates tension and suspense in the story, making it more engaging for the reader.
In character development, dilemma is an effective tool to reveal a character’s moral compass, values, and beliefs. It puts the character in a situation where they must make a choice that will define their character and shape their future actions. The way a character responds to a dilemma can reveal a lot about their personality and motivations.
Dilemma can also be used to create character growth and transformation. When a character is faced with a difficult decision, they are forced to reevaluate their beliefs and priorities. This can lead to a change in their character, as they learn from their mistakes and make different choices in the future.
For example, in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” the protagonist Jay Gatsby is faced with a dilemma when he must choose between pursuing his love interest Daisy or maintaining his reputation and social status. This dilemma reveals Gatsby’s true motivations and values, as well as his willingness to take risks and sacrifice for what he desires.
Impact of Dilemma on Plot Progression
Dilemma is a literary device that creates a conflict, problem, or situation with two possible solutions. It is often used in literature to drive the narrative forward and reveal a deeper meaning in the story. The impact of dilemma on plot progression is significant, as it creates tension, suspense, and engages the reader in the story.
One of the ways in which dilemma impacts plot progression is by creating a sense of uncertainty. When a character is faced with a dilemma, they are forced to make a difficult decision, and the outcome is uncertain. This uncertainty creates tension and suspense, as the reader is left wondering what the character will do and what the consequences of their decision will be. This tension keeps the reader engaged in the story and invested in the outcome.
Another way in which dilemma impacts plot progression is by revealing character motivations, values, and weaknesses. When a character is faced with a dilemma, they are forced to make a choice that reveals their true character. The decision they make can reveal their values and motivations, as well as their weaknesses. This information can be used to further develop the character and add depth to the story.
Dilemma can also be used to create plot twists and turns. When a character is faced with a dilemma, they may make a decision that leads to unexpected consequences. These consequences can create plot twists and turns that keep the reader engaged in the story and add complexity to the plot.
Criticism and Analysis of Dilemma as a Literary Device
As with any literary device, dilemma has been the subject of criticism and analysis. Some critics argue that the use of dilemma can be manipulative, forcing readers to choose between two options that are not actually equal in value. Others argue that dilemma can be used to great effect, creating tension and moral complexity in a story.
One criticism of dilemma is that it can be a simplistic way to create conflict in a story. By setting up a situation where a character must choose between two options, the author can create tension without having to delve deeply into character motivations or plot development. This can lead to a shallow or predictable storyline.
However, defenders of dilemma argue that it can be a powerful tool for exploring complex moral issues. By forcing characters to choose between two options, the author can highlight the difficult choices that people must make in real life. Dilemma can also be used to create ambiguity and uncertainty, leaving readers questioning the morality of the characters and the choices they have made.
In addition, some critics have argued that the use of dilemma can be manipulative, as it forces readers to choose between two options that are not actually equal in value. For example, an author might present a character with a choice between saving a loved one or saving a stranger, but the reader may feel that one option is clearly more moral than the other. This can make the reader feel manipulated or frustrated with the story.
Despite these criticisms, dilemma remains a popular and effective literary device. When used well, it can add depth and complexity to a story, forcing readers to grapple with difficult moral questions and creating tension and uncertainty. By carefully balancing the options presented to characters, authors can create a sense of realism and moral complexity that resonates with readers.
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