Student Question
Which three characters show prejudice in Rules, and how do they show it?
Quick answer:
In Rules, prejudice is shown by Catherine, Ryan, and Kristi. Catherine exhibits ableist prejudice by initially fearing Jason, who is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair, valuing appearances over understanding. Ryan displays ableism by mocking Catherine's autistic brother, David, for his behaviors. Kristi also shows prejudice by mocking Jason at a dance, despite Catherine's hesitance to explain Jason's situation, indicating Kristi's lack of understanding.
The book Rules is about the ways that young people discriminate against each other, specifically for ableist reasons. For instance, Catherine exhibits ableist prejudice because she is scared of Jason when she first meets him. Jason is nonverbal, using a system of cards to communicate with others, and he is in a wheelchair. Catherine values making friends with people who look cool to her, like Kristi, which causes Catherine to fear and shun Jason.
Ryan is being ableist when he makes fun of David, Catherine's brother, for being autistic, and for expressing behaviors that aren't harmful but that Ryan considers abnormal.
Kristi shows her prejudice when she mocks Jason at the dance, although Catherine was anxious to tell Kristi about the realities of Jason's life, indicating that Catherine already had reason to believe that Kristi wouldn't be very understanding.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.