Based on your reading, evaluate how the two short stories support the theme of humanity’s relationship with nature. In your response, access and evaluate text evidence to support this theme. Provide at least 2 examples of evidence. Use 3-5 sentences.

Answer 1

In "The Open Boat" and "To Build a Fire," both stories showcase the harsh and unforgiving nature of the natural world and how humans struggle to survive and adapt within it. In "The Open Boat," the men are at the mercy of the sea, battling against the elements such as the wind and waves in order to stay alive. For example, the narrator describes the relentless sea as "a harsh field of endeavor," highlighting the struggle between humanity and nature. In "To Build a Fire," the man is faced with the brutal cold of the Yukon wilderness, where even the simplest mistake can lead to death. This is depicted when the man's fingers freeze and he is unable to start a fire, ultimately leading to his demise. Both stories emphasize the fragility of humanity in the face of nature's power, further exploring the complex relationship between the two.