Unit 2 Writing Task

You have read two short stories on the theme of outsiders. In "The Metamorphosis," Franz Kafka tells the story of a man who wakes up one day as some sort of bug-like vermin. In "The Doll's House," the Kelvey children are treated as outcasts because of their family.

Now, you will use your knowledge of the stories to write an argument about people's need to belong.

Apply your own experience and your analysis of the stories to write an argumentative essay on this question:

Are outsiders simply those who are misjudged or misunderstood?

For a model of a well-crafted argumentative essay, see the Launch Text, "Isn't Everyone a Little Bit Weird?"

Possible Argument Frame/ Sentence Starters

1. When it comes to the topic of outsiders, many will agree that ______. Where this argument ends is on the question of whether or not outsiders are simply misjudged or misunderstood. While some are convinced that _____, others maintain _____. My own view is that _____.

2. In both "The Metamorphosis" and "The Doll's House," the characters who are considered outsiders face judgment and mistreatment from others.

3. The theme of outsiders in these stories raises the question of whether they are truly outsiders or if they are simply misjudged and misunderstood individuals.

4. Throughout the stories, it becomes clear that outsiders are often singled out and ostracized due to a lack of understanding and empathy from those around them.

5. By examining the situations of Gregor Samsa and the Kelvey children, it becomes clear that outsiders are more than just misfits - they are often deeply misunderstood individuals.

6. Throughout the stories, the characters who are labeled as outsiders demonstrate a fundamental need to belong, but are denied this sense of belonging due to the biases and preconceptions of others.

7. "The Metamorphosis" and "The Doll's House" serve as powerful reminders that outsiders are not defined by their differences, but by their shared desire to be accepted and understood.

8. When considering the experiences of outsiders in these stories, it becomes evident that they are more than just victims of judgment - they are individuals yearning for connection and acceptance.

Exemplary Response:

In both "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka and "The Doll's House" by Katherine Mansfield, the theme of outsiders is explored through the experiences of the main characters. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the human need to belong and raise the question: Are outsiders simply those who are misjudged or misunderstood?

In the case of Gregor Samsa in "The Metamorphosis," he wakes up one morning transformed into a repulsive bug-like creature. Society, including his own family, rejects him because of his altered appearance and inability to communicate. However, Gregor's transformation does not change his inner humanity. He still longs for acceptance and tries to maintain his role as a breadwinner for his family. By portraying Gregor as both an outsider and a sympathetic character, Kafka emphasizes that outsiders are not inherently different or unworthy of acceptance.

Similarly, in "The Doll's House," the Kelvey children face exclusion and discrimination due to their lower social status. The other children in the school and their own classmates treat them as outcasts, preventing them from fully participating in social activities. However, the Kelvey children are not at fault for their family's circumstances. Mansfield highlights society's unfair judgment and treatment of outsiders, shedding light on the damaging effects of prejudice and discrimination.

Outsiders are often misjudged and misunderstood because they do not fit societal norms or expectations. However, it is important to recognize that everyone deserves understanding and acceptance, regardless of their circumstances. Society's rejection of outsiders stems from a lack of empathy and a failure to comprehend their unique experiences and challenges.

To further support the argument that outsiders are misjudged or misunderstood, it is essential to consider the evidence and viewpoints from credible sources. Research studies have shown that individuals who are perceived as outsiders often experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. This evidence underscores the negative impact of societal exclusion on individuals' mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, the stories of "The Metamorphosis" and "The Doll's House" demonstrate that outsiders are not intrinsically flawed or different from those who belong. Instead, they are often misjudged or misunderstood due to societal prejudices and lack of empathy. By fostering understanding and acceptance, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone feels valued and welcomed.

Non-Exemplary Response:

In "The Metamorphosis," Gregor turns into some kind of bug and everyone hates him. In "The Doll's House," the Kelvey kids are treated badly because of their family. Are outsiders just misunderstood? I think so. People shouldn't judge others just because they look different or come from a different background. It's not fair. Everyone should be accepted for who they are. That's my argument.