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Examples Of Conformity In The Chrysalids

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The Grips of Conformity Many factors affect the rise and fall of nations, but it is conformity that plays an integral part in the prosperity of a community. It has such devastating effects on its followers that one cannot comprehend how dangerous it might end up being. The Chrysalids, a post-apocalyptic novel by John Wyndham, exhibits the significance of diversity and change. It reveals how compliance and blind acceptance of traditions can cause permanent damages to a society, such as isolating individuals and tearing families apart. Throughout the novel, Wyndham expresses how acceptance of the true image creates an isolating environment for individuals with opposing ideas. As David grows up, he realizes that there is absolutely no respect …show more content…

Around the time when David is ten and unaware of the significance of hiding his gift, he experiences a frightening confrontation that tears him away from his family. He witnesses the shunning of his beloved Aunt Harriet, an event that leads to her demise. Instead of helping her out, his parents degrade her until her will to live is lost. She responds to their conniving comments in a heartbreaking manner: “I shall ask Him if it is indeed His will that a child should suffer and its soul be damned for a little blemish of the body…. And I shall pray Him, too, that the hearts of the self-righteous may be broken.” (73) Aunt Harriet’s compelling words signify that conformity has such tight reins on its followers, that it has led them to separate a mother from her child and a sister. Furthermore, the author indirectly mentions that David is afraid of his family as they will show no mercy if he is found out, and distances himself completely. Later on, Wyndham confirms that David’s suspicions of his family turning against him are accurate. While conversing with the Sealander, he is provided with incentive to cut his ties with his mother: "There is comfort in a mother's breast, but there has to be a weaning... The cord has been cut at the other end already; it will only be a futile entanglement if you do not cut it at your end, too." (183) The heartbreaking words reveal the reality of conformity; even the impenetrable bond of a mother and son can be broken due to a toxic belief. To conclude, even the strong ties of families can be severed because of an antagonizing

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