The Impacts of Isolation, and the Possibility of Courage, in 'The Chrysalids' and 'Gattaca' Teyah Braithwaite 10th Grade

Courage is defined as strength in the face of uncertainty or intimidation, the choice to confront uncertainty and danger even when feeling fear. This concept of showing bravery during difficult situations ranges so much it is categorized into 6 different types, physical, emotional, intellectual, social, moral, and spiritual. John Wyndham focuses on these different types of bravery by showing how isolation can provoke courageous acts with his novel The Chrysalids. The novel was published in 1955 shortly after WWII, a time of high concern about the effects of nuclear weapons and tensions between many countries. Wyndham relates his concern about life post-war and how he predicts future problems may appear as a result in his dystopian novel. He also indicates how discrimination begins to develop when ignorant beliefs are practiced and explores the effects this prejudice has on isolated individuals. Courage is revealed to manifest itself in characters in the novel who have experienced discrimination and alienation, similar to the film Gattaca. Wyndham indicates how isolation may have impacts that subsequently result in displays of courage throughout The Chrysalids.

Isolation is a major theme in The Chrysalids, dominantly present to...