Question

extended response question: the power of perspective in the giver

1. in lois lowrys novel, the giver, the author develops and contrasts the perspectives of the main character, jonas, and his father (the nurturer), particularly regarding the practice ofrelease. analyze how jonass new role as the receiver of memory influences his perspective onrelease over the course of the novel. then, contrast jonass perspective with the unchanging perspective of his father, the nurture. finally, explain how the authors choice to reveal the true meaning ofrelease through jonass perspective and the memory - based element of the story (rl.7.3) influences the readers understanding of the community and the novels central theme of knowledge versus ignorance (rl.7.6).

r.a.c.e writing strategy:
-restate the question
-answer all parts of the question
-cite evidence from the text
-explain how the evidence supports your answer

Explanation:

In The Giver, Jonas's role as Receiver of Memory exposes him to memories of pain, loss, and death. This makes him realize that "release" is not a peaceful departure but euthanasia. His father, as a Nurturer, follows the community's rules blindly, seeing "release" as routine. The author uses Jonas's perspective to show the truth about "release" (e.g., when Jonas watches the video of his father releasing a twin). The memory - based element (Jonas's access to memories) makes readers understand the community's ignorance (they lack real knowledge of life and death) and the theme of knowledge vs. ignorance (Jonas gains knowledge through memories, while the community remains ignorant).

Answer:

Jonas's new role as Receiver of Memory makes him see "release" as euthanasia. His father views it as routine. The author reveals the truth via Jonas's perspective (e.g., twin release video). The memory - based element shows the community's ignorance and the theme of knowledge vs. ignorance.