preview

Hills Like White Elephants Essay

Better Essays
Open Document

The evolution of the female character identity in “Hills like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway
As part of human nature, it is not uncommon for an individual to attempt to impose his own way of thinking or acting on those he believes he can control. In occasions, a sense of inferiority or fear can make us accept those circumstances, and, thus, act against our own will. Hemingway’s “Hills like White Elephants” short story focuses on the strained relationship of its main characters: the American and Jig. Throughout his narrative, the author places special emphasis on two detrimental human characteristics: selfishness and individuality. The setting of the story takes place in an isolated train station located between cities of Barcelona and …show more content…

His indifference is supported by his refusal to look at her directly into the eyes, answering her questions in short and concise words, but, yet, trying to dominate the scene. When the operation is first mentioned, he describes it to be a simple and “natural” solution in an attempt to minimize its risks and implications. He has the final word every time a dialogue is exchanged, appears to know the native language, orders the drinks, and is the one in charge of their travels and adventures. For him, Jig is just an accessory, an object he thinks he owns and has the right to manipulate to his convenience. On the other hand, when it comes to analyzing her behavior, at the beginning of the story she appears to be unsure about her own feelings. Unable to express her dilemma, Jig appears to be lost in her own thoughts and having trouble to decide whether or not aborting is the right choice to make. Nonetheless, an unexpected turn occurs about halfway of the story. Jig finally accepts she will abort by saying the following: “Then I’ll do it. Because I don’t care about me (…). And I’ll do it and then everything will be fine.” (Hemingway 213). Once again, her sudden change in opinion suggests the confusion and internal conflict she was going

Get Access