The Main Lesson of “A Purple Jar”

 

The Main Lesson of “A Purple Jar”
The main lesson of Edgeworth’s didactic story “A Purple Jar” is the importance of contentment and appreciating what one already has. The story follows a young girl named Rosamond who becomes obsessed with acquiring a purple jar, believing it will bring her happiness. However, once she obtains the jar, she quickly realizes that it does not fulfill her desires and she is left feeling empty. Through Rosamond’s experience, Edgeworth conveys the message that material possessions do not equate to true happiness.

This lesson is still highly relevant to today’s children, as consumerism and the pursuit of material possessions continue to be prevalent in society. Many children are bombarded with advertisements and messages that suggest happiness can be found through the acquisition of material goods. By reading “A Purple Jar,” children can learn the valuable lesson that true happiness comes from within and cannot be attained through material possessions.

Rosamond as a Relatable Child Protagonist
I agree with Mitzi Myers’ assertion that Rosamond is a relatable child protagonist in “The Purple Jar.” Rosamond’s character is depicted in a way that young readers can identify with, as she experiences common childhood desires and mistakes. She longs for the purple jar and believes it will bring her happiness, mirroring the desires and misconceptions that many children may have about material possessions.

“The Purple Jar” is able to both “please” and “teach” children by presenting a relatable protagonist and engaging storytelling. While the story imparts a moral lesson, it does so in a way that captivates young readers’ attention. Through Rosamond’s journey, children can enjoy the story while also internalizing the message about the importance of contentment.

A Childhood Favorite: “Charlotte’s Web”
“Charlotte’s Web” is a beloved children’s book that tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. The book revolves around themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life. It follows Wilbur’s journey from being an outcast to becoming a cherished member of the farm community.

One lesson that “Charlotte’s Web” successfully teaches is the power of selflessness and compassion. Throughout the book, Charlotte selflessly helps Wilbur by spinning webs with messages to save him from being slaughtered. This act of kindness and sacrifice demonstrates to children the importance of looking out for others and being willing to help those in need.

The story allows children to think critically about this lesson by presenting Charlotte’s actions as something to be admired and emulated. Children can reflect on how they can show compassion and selflessness in their own lives, fostering empathy and a sense of responsibility towards others.

The Major Appeal of “The Little Prince”
One major appeal of “The Little Prince” for young readers is its ability to capture their imagination and transport them into a whimsical world. The book enchants readers with its vivid descriptions and imaginative illustrations, creating a sense of wonder and adventure.

One quotation that exemplifies this appeal is when the narrator describes the little prince’s visit to different planets: “He found himself on a planet where there was a king…another planet inhabited by a tippler…still another planet where there was a businessman…” (Saint-Exupéry 19). This passage sparks curiosity and captivates young readers by introducing them to a variety of unique characters and settings.

Through its imaginative storytelling, “The Little Prince” entertains and engages young readers by taking them on a journey filled with fantastical encounters and thought-provoking conversations. It encourages children to explore their own creativity and imagination, making it a beloved classic for generations.

The Lessons in “The Little Prince”
“The Little Prince” does indeed have a lesson, although it may not be spelled out as explicitly as in “The Purple Jar.” One lesson conveyed in the book is the importance of cherishing and valuing relationships.

This lesson is exemplified in the quote, “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye” (Saint-Exupéry 55). The book emphasizes the significance of emotional connections and understanding others on a deeper level. It reminds readers that true value lies in forming meaningful relationships rather than focusing solely on superficial appearances.

Despite not explicitly stating its lessons, “The Little Prince” remains valuable because it encourages readers to think critically and reflect on their own lives. It prompts introspection and contemplation about the deeper meaning behind its whimsical narrative, allowing readers to discover their own interpretations and insights.

Effective Literary Technique: Symbolism in “The Little Prince”
The use of symbolism in “The Little Prince” is highly effective in conveying deeper meanings within the story. One example of symbolism is the rose, which represents love, vulnerability, and the complexities of relationships.

The rose’s significance is evident when the little prince says, “You’re beautiful, but you’re empty…One couldn’t die for you. Of course, an ordinary passerby would think my rose looked just like you. But my rose, all on her own, is more important than all of you together since she’s the one I’ve watered…since she’s the one I put under glass…since she’s the one I sheltered behind the screen” (Saint-Exupéry 71). This passage symbolizes the unique value and significance of individual relationships and highlights the importance of nurturing and protecting them.

Symbolism adds depth to the story by allowing readers to interpret and uncover hidden meanings. It engages readers’ critical thinking skills and encourages them to delve beyond the surface narrative to discover underlying messages and themes in “The Little Prince.”