Disobedience In The Things They Carried By Tim O Brien

Oscar Wilde's assertion that disobedience is fundamental to human progress finds ample validation within Tim O'Brien's "The Things They Carried," where the characters' acts of disobedience are depicted as catalysts for personal growth, moral awakening, and societal change. In "The Things They Carried," disobedience emerges as a central theme, serving as a vehicle for challenging norms, confronting injustice, and catalyzing transformation. One of the most compelling instances of disobedience is illustrated through the character of Lieutenant Jimmy Cross. Initially, Cross adheres to the conventional expectations of a military leader, prioritizing duty and obedience. However, his disobedience takes root in his decision to prioritize his personal desires over military protocol, evidenced by his preoccupation with Martha and his negligence of his duties. Cross's disobedience ultimately leads to tragic consequences, as symbolized by the death of Ted Lavender, prompting Cross to confront the consequences of his actions and undergo a profound internal transformation. Through Cross's disobedience, O'Brien suggests that progress often emerges from the rupture of established norms and the confrontation of personal desires with societal expectations. …show more content…

O'Brien's decision to resist the draft and flee to Canada exemplifies a radical act of disobedience against the prevailing norms of patriotism and duty. By refusing to comply with societal expectations and questioning the morality of the Vietnam War, O'Brien embarks on a journey of self-discovery and moral awakening. His act of disobedience not only challenges the legitimacy of the war, but also prompts readers to reevaluate their own beliefs and values. Through O'Brien's disobedience, the novel invites us to consider the possibility that progress often arises from the courage to defy authority and question the status