The Giver Group

Question:

maidenalice
maidenalice
Student
High School - 10th Grade

In "The Giver", why does Jonas have to receive and store memories of pain?

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Posted by maidenalice on Tuesday December 16, 2008 at 3:07 PM and tagged with jonas, memories, pain, the giver.

Answers:

  1. slchanmo1885
    slchanmo1885 Teacher
    High School - 10th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    Jonas must receive the memories of pain as well as pleasant memories because he was chosen to be the next Receiver of Memory. The community needs a keeper of memories because they have eradicated all fear, pain, and most emotions. In order to help the Elders make their decisions, someone who keeps these memories is important so that he can advise them. Because the committee of Elders do not have these memories, they need someone who has knowledge of painful memories so that they can solve new problems that occur. The memories of pain and happiness and other feelings enlighten Jonas to the pitfalls of the community, and he begins to feel more alienated and alone.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/giver/summary

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    Posted by slchanmo1885 on Tuesday December 16, 2008 at 6:03 PM