Shooting an Elephant

After reading paragraph 6, reflect on the situation Orwell finds himself in as he decides whether to shoot the elephant. Describe another character— either from a story you know or one you create—who faces a similar situation, where you are being pressure

After reading paragraph 6, reflect on the situation Orwell finds himself in as he decides whether to shoot the elephant. Describe another character— either from a story you know or one you create—who faces a similar situation, where you are being pressured to do something you feel is wrong. Try to focus on the internal struggle and. feelings of being conflicted that are common in such situations.

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In paragraph six, Orwell notes thaht shooting the elephant will be a monumental task, and that it also seems to be unnecessary because the elephant's "must" is wearing off.... the elephant is no longer dangerous. In looking at the spectators, however, Orwell determines that the people are waiting for a show... the massive group of people expectantly stood waiting for him to shoot the elephant, and in his mind, he had no choice but to do something he no longer felt necessary.

The second part of your question calls for your own personal experience. Have you ever been in a situation where you did something simply because of peer pressure.... because those watching are waiting?

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Shooting an Elephant