Student Question
What is the theme of relationships in the short story "The Signal-Man"?
Quick answer:
In "The Signal-Man," the theme of relationships is highlighted through the impact of technology, symbolized by the train, which diminishes human connection and initiative. The ghost's gestures, ignored by the train, underscore the inability to form meaningful connections. Additionally, the failure of technological safety devices like flags and signals, which replace human interaction, emphasizes the futility of relationships in a mechanized world, suggesting that human agency might have prevented tragedies.
The major emphasis on the theme of relationships in "The Signal-Man" is on how technology, symbolized by the train, robs humankind of the initiative and ability to connect in relationships. This is illustrated by the ghost standing with one arm covering its eyes and the other arm waving frantically at an object that neither can nor will respond with a relationship that might save him.
Another demonstration of the theme of the futility of relationship in a technological world is the ineffectualness of the technological safety devices that are meant to stand in place of human relationship. These are flags, bells, red lights and telegraph signals, all of which fail at preventing tragedies that may have been averted if human agency were the means of communication.
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.