Values

Definition

Values are the principles and beliefs that guide an individual's behavior and decisions, influencing what is considered important or desirable. They shape how people perceive and interact with the world around them, including their relationships, priorities, and moral judgments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Values can vary greatly among different cultures, communities, and individuals, influencing everything from personal choices to societal norms.
2. The setting and atmosphere of a narrative can reflect the values of characters or society, shaping the reader's understanding of motivations and conflicts.
3. Conflicts in stories often arise from clashing values between characters or groups, driving the plot and character development.
4. Authors often use symbolism within the setting to emphasize specific values or critiques of societal norms.
5. Understanding a character's values helps readers anticipate their actions and reactions within a story's atmosphere.

Review Questions

• How do values influence character development within a narrative's setting?
  • Values play a crucial role in character development as they dictate how characters respond to situations within their environment. A character's values can lead to specific choices that affect their relationships and conflict resolution. When the setting reflects these values, it enhances the understanding of a character's motivations and struggles, making them more relatable and dynamic.
• In what ways can contrasting values create tension within a story's atmosphere?
  • Contrasting values between characters can create significant tension in a story, as these differences often lead to conflicts and misunderstandings. When characters with opposing beliefs interact within a specific setting, it heightens drama and raises stakes. The atmosphere can become charged with emotions, as each character fights for their values to be recognized or validated, impacting the overall narrative arc.
• Evaluate how an author might use setting to critique societal values in their work.
  • An author can use setting as a powerful tool to critique societal values by contrasting the environment with the actions of characters or prevailing beliefs. For instance, a bleak or oppressive atmosphere might highlight the negative consequences of certain values held by society. By showcasing characters who struggle against these societal norms within a specific setting, the author invites readers to reflect on their own values and the implications of those held by the broader community.

Related terms

Morals: Morals are the beliefs about what is right and wrong, often shaped by cultural, religious, or personal influences.

Ethics: Ethics refers to the systematic study of what is right and wrong in human conduct, often involving frameworks for decision-making.

Beliefs: Beliefs are the convictions or acceptances that something is true or exists, which can be influenced by values and experiences.