Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World uses the New Mexico Savage Reservation to define the values portrayed in the novel. Huxley displays the reservation as an example of both noble virtue and primitive ignorance. This conflict about the role of the Savages reflects John’s inner struggles and, by refusing him a place to live, denies him the possibility of life.
The reservation represents several conflicting values. As one of the few places remaining where humans are still human, rather than machines. They can still feel emotion unlike the people of the brave new world. However, it is also a place of primitivism and ignorance. The savages reject John, even though he was born and raised among them, consider him an “outsider.” Their prejudices set them against him, denying him a safe haven.
The Savage Reservation mirrors John’s inner conflict. He does not fit into either the “civilized” world or the reservation. Just as the reservation represents two opposing values, John feels torn between two opposing worlds. His uncertainty is what drives him into a self-willed exile.
The dual nature of the Savage Reservation helps convey Huxley’s message. He warns against creating a society like the brave new world, as the cost of happiness would be far too high. The reservation, however, does not offer a suitable world either, filled as it is with rigid prejudices and superstitions. Huxley’s ideal situation would be a middle road between the two.
By refusing John a place in their society, the Savages contribute to his death and therefore to the meaning of Brave New World. The reservation’s dual nature reflects John’s inner conflict.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment