1. Individualism vs. Collectivism:
* Individualistic Approach: A protagonist who prioritizes personal goals, uses independent action, and relies on individual strength reflects a culture that values self-reliance, ambition, and individual achievement. (e.g., Ayn Rand's *Atlas Shrugged*).
* Collectivistic Approach: A protagonist who prioritizes group needs, seeks consensus, and values cooperation reflects a culture where community and social harmony are paramount. (e.g., The novel *Snow Flower and the Secret Fan* by Lisa See)
2. Honor and Duty:
* Emphasis on Honor: A protagonist who acts according to a strict code of honor, even at personal cost, reflects a culture where reputation and adherence to tradition are highly valued. (e.g., *The Odyssey* by Homer).
* Emphasis on Duty: A protagonist who prioritizes duty to family, society, or a higher cause reflects a culture where social obligation and selfless service are central. (e.g., *The Lord of the Rings* by J.R.R. Tolkien).
3. Violence and Non-Violence:
* Violent Approach: A protagonist who resolves conflict through aggression, violence, or war reflects a culture that values strength, dominance, and might. (e.g., *The Iliad* by Homer).
* Non-Violent Approach: A protagonist who seeks peaceful resolution, uses empathy, and advocates for dialogue reflects a culture that values diplomacy, understanding, and compassion. (e.g., *Gandhi* by E.H. Erikson).
4. Power and Authority:
* Challenging Authority: A protagonist who rebels against established power structures reflects a culture that values individual freedom, dissent, and social reform. (e.g., *The Scarlet Letter* by Nathaniel Hawthorne).
* Upholding Authority: A protagonist who maintains order, obeys rules, and respects authority reflects a culture that prioritizes stability, obedience, and hierarchy. (e.g., *Animal Farm* by George Orwell).
5. Belief Systems:
* Faith-Based: A protagonist who relies on spiritual guidance, divine intervention, or religious principles reflects a culture deeply influenced by religious beliefs. (e.g., *The Book of Mormon* by the LDS Church).
* Rationalism: A protagonist who prioritizes logic, reason, and scientific inquiry reflects a culture that values intellectualism and progress. (e.g., *Frankenstein* by Mary Shelley).
Example:
* In the novel *To Kill a Mockingbird* by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch, the protagonist, approaches conflict with unwavering moral courage and a commitment to justice, even in the face of societal prejudice. This reflects the American values of equality and fairness, despite the reality of segregation and racism.
Conclusion:
By analyzing how a protagonist confronts conflict, we gain insights into the cultural values, beliefs, and social norms that shape a literary work. This approach can provide deeper understanding of the author's message, the context of the story, and the cultural backdrop of the world depicted.