The Enduring Educational Values in "The Giver"

Students are drawn to dystopian novels and their film adaptations, which explore societies where oppressive governments, in a misguided attempt to eliminate suffering, create environments devoid of choice and emotion. Lois Lowry's "The Giver," published in 1993 and later adapted into a film, presents such a society, one that values "Sameness" above all else. The story follows Jonas, a 12-year-old boy chosen to become the Receiver of Memory, the keeper of all memories from before the time of Sameness. As Jonas receives these memories from the Giver, he begins to understand the darker aspects of his seemingly perfect society. This article explores the educational values embedded within "The Giver," examining its themes and their relevance to contemporary issues.

Dystopian Societies and the Suppression of Individuality

Through dystopian stories like "The Giver," young people observe how freedom of conscience can be subordinated to group-think. The novel serves as a cautionary tale, prompting readers to think critically about the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity.

The Illusion of Utopia

"The Giver" presents a society that has eliminated pain and suffering by eradicating choice and strong emotions. This pursuit of a utopian ideal comes at a significant cost: the suppression of individuality and the elimination of personal freedom. Jonas's journey as the Receiver of Memory reveals the truth behind this seemingly perfect world, exposing the sacrifices made in the name of Sameness. The elimination of "unfit" infants and senior citizens, euphemistically referred to as being sent "Elsewhere," highlights the extreme measures taken to maintain the illusion of utopia.

The Importance of Memory

Memory plays a central role in "The Giver." The Receiver of Memory is responsible for preserving the memories of the past, ensuring that the community can learn from history and avoid repeating past mistakes. As Jonas receives memories from the Giver, he gains a deeper understanding of emotions, both positive and negative, and the importance of experiencing the full range of human experience. The novel underscores the idea that without memory, there is no understanding of pain, and without pain, there can be no true joy.

Contemporary Relevance: Echoes of Dystopia Today

"The Giver" is a warning about the dangers of sacrificing individual freedoms for the sake of perceived societal harmony. The themes explored in the novel resonate with contemporary issues, such as the suppression of religious freedom in the name of group-think and the potential for discrimination in the pursuit of equality.

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Freedom of Conscience vs. Group-Think

The novel prompts readers to consider the tension between freedom of conscience and the pressure to conform to societal norms. The story mirrors real-world situations where individuals face consequences for acting in accordance with their beliefs, even when those beliefs conflict with prevailing social attitudes.

The Suppression of Religious Freedom

Examples such as the case of wedding photographer Elaine Huguenin, who declined to photograph a same-sex wedding due to her religious beliefs, and the California State University system's decision to no longer recognize student religious clubs with leadership adherence requirements, illustrate the challenges faced by individuals and organizations seeking to uphold their religious freedom in a society that increasingly prioritizes group-think.

The Value of Diversity and Humanity

"The Giver" emphasizes the beauty and value of every human life. The film underscores that in our diversity and humanity, and even in our frailty and brokenness, we are the colors of the beautiful masterpiece of life. When we forget to care for the most fragile among us, we lose the essence of our humanity.

Educational Applications and Lesson Plan Ideas

"The Giver" offers numerous opportunities for educational exploration and discussion. Its themes of individuality, conformity, memory, and freedom make it a valuable tool for engaging students in critical thinking and ethical reasoning.

Engaging Students with the Novel

To maximize the educational impact of "The Giver," teachers can employ a variety of strategies, including:

Introduction to the Novel: Introduce students to the basic plot and themes of "The Giver." This can include a brief summary of the story, discussion of the setting and characters, and identification of key themes such as individuality, conformity, and the value of memories.
Character Analysis: Have students choose a character from "The Giver" to analyze in depth. This could include creating a character map, writing a character sketch.
Creating a Quiz: Students create a quiz for the novel, short story, or play being studied. They can use an online quiz-making site like quizyourfriends.com, or do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper.
Character Diary Entry: Students write a diary entry from the perspective of a character in "The Giver." They should make the voice authentic and the topics relevant to the character’s role in "The Giver." Start the lesson by discussing what characterization is and how it is achieved.
Theme Exploration: Guide students in identifying and analyzing the major themes of the novel, such as the importance of memory, the value of individuality, and the dangers of conformity.

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Dystopian Literature: Have students read and report on other examples of dystopian literature.
Analyzing Rules: Get students to consider the what the objectives and consequences of rules are. You can then get your students to consider the rules of our own society from the perspectives of law makers and citizens.
Memory Book: Ask your students to then create a Memory Book describing their own memories associated with each emotion. They can include written descriptions, photos, and drawings. Students can begin in class by listing the memories they want to include.

Discussion Questions

Engage students in meaningful discussions about the novel's themes and their relevance to the real world. Some sample questions include:

How do Jonas’ instructions contradict the community rules? What challenges do you foresee? How will his life change?
If you were Jonas, how would you react to these instructions?
How does the Giver treat Jonas? Give specific examples from the story.
Why does Jonas force himself to describe his whole dream despite his reluctance and embarrassment?
What is the communities attitude towards and treatment for “stirrings”? What does this say about the community?
What type of person might not “fit in” to a carefully planned and organized community like the one in "The Giver?"
What do the following details from chapter one tell you about the community Jonas lives in? Jonas was frightened when he saw a jet fly overhead. Jonas and his sister don’t know what animals are. Boys and girls are referred to as “male” and “female.” New children don’t spend their first year with their families. It is rare to have visits from

Writing Assignments

Encourage students to synthesize their understanding of the novel through writing assignments, such as:

Character Analysis Essays: Have students pick a character and analyze them in depth.
Alternative Ending: Write an alternative ending for "The Giver." Before students begin writing, they should consider the following: 1) Jonas and Gabriel are cold, tired and getting weaker. How does Jonas find the strength to go on? 2) What effect does the sunshine have on
Theme Essays: Have students explore a theme of the novel.

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