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The Most Dangerous Game

by Richard Edward Connell

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Student Question

How do the main characters in "The Most Dangerous Game" and "The Sniper" view humans as objects?

Quick answer:

In "The Most Dangerous Game," Rainsford initially views humans as superior to animals but quickly adapts to a survival mindset when hunted by General Zaroff, showing little remorse for killing him. In contrast, in "The Sniper," the protagonist views humans as targets in war but experiences guilt upon realizing a personal connection to his victim, indicating a more complex emotional response to killing. This highlights differing perspectives on dehumanization and morality in conflict.

Expert Answers

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In the short story, “The Most Dangerous Game,” Rainsford sees humans as being above animals with regard to their emotions, though processes, and etc. He comes very quickly to change his opinion when it is kill or be killed by General Zaroff. In the short story, “The Sniper,” on the other hand, the sniper does not have this problem. It seems as if he too has learned it’s kill or be killed.

While Rainsford does not seem to have any compunction about killing Zarroff and sleeping in his bed, the sniper has a different reaction when he looks into the face of the man he killed and recognizes his “brother”. Whether it is literally his brother or simply someone with whom he feels a connection, we don’t know, but he does have feelings of guilt whereas Rainsford doesn’t. The following enotes links might provide some information to help you.

http://www.enotes.com/jax/index.php/enotes/gsearch?m=co&q=the+most+dangerous+game

http://www.enotes.com/jax/index.php/enotes/gsearch?m=co&q=the+sniper

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