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Freshman English II

This document provides a summary of Doris Lessing's short story "IND AFF or Out of Love in Sarajevo". It discusses the transformation of the protagonist from a determined student dedicated to her studies under Professor Peter to a more conflicted character as their relationship deepens into a romantic affair. As societal expectations weigh on her, she becomes torn between her love for Peter and the moral implications of their relationship. By leaving Peter suddenly in Sarajevo, the protagonist demonstrates a newfound independence and rejection of impulsive passion in favor of principled decision making.

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22 views

Freshman English II

This document provides a summary of Doris Lessing's short story "IND AFF or Out of Love in Sarajevo". It discusses the transformation of the protagonist from a determined student dedicated to her studies under Professor Peter to a more conflicted character as their relationship deepens into a romantic affair. As societal expectations weigh on her, she becomes torn between her love for Peter and the moral implications of their relationship. By leaving Peter suddenly in Sarajevo, the protagonist demonstrates a newfound independence and rejection of impulsive passion in favor of principled decision making.

Uploaded by

hassignment57
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Surname 1

Student’s Name

Professor’s Name

Course

Date

Freshman English II – 102

In Doris Lessing's "IND AFF or Out of Love in Sarajevo," the protagonist's character

undergoes a significant transformation inspired by her dating Professor Peter. This tale explores

the complex interaction among love, ambition, and morality and the way these elements can

shape an individual's person. The protagonist, a young and passionate student, is initially

characterized by her admiration for Peter, her academic instructor. However, as their dating

deepens into a romantic affair, her character evolves from a determined and bold scholar to a

more impulsive and conflicted character.

At the story's beginning, a strong interest in Dr. Peter Piper defines the protagonist's

identity. She sees him as knowledgeable and authentic in her academic world, which inspires her

to develop a thesis under his tutelage (140). This appreciation is evident when he discusses

science with her, even during their rainy holidays in Sarajevo. The protagonist's eagerness to

please Peter influences her educational choices and aspirations. Her determination to excel in her

studies and gain Peter's approval drives her life. This first personality trait reflects his dedication

and optimism, essential aspects of his personality at the story's beginning.

Moreover, societal expectations play a significant role in shaping the protagonist's

character transformation, highlighting the intricate relationship between personal identity and
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external influences. The narrative explores how traditional norms and values relating to

relationships and morality significantly impact the protagonist's decision-making process. This

adds complexity to her character development, particularly evident in her interaction with

Professor Peter. The weight of societal judgment is palpable as she grapples with the outcomes of

her involvement in an extramarital affair, an act considered taboo by societal standards. This

outside judgment compounds her inner conflict, rendering her transformation more intricate.

Ultimately, the burden of societal expectations becomes a pivotal component in her choice to

distance herself from Peter as she seeks to align her actions with societal norms and her moral

values.

However, as the story progresses, the protagonist's character shifts due to her romantic

involvement with Peter. Their relationship, marked through secrecy and moral ambiguity, will

catalyze her transformation. She will become more impulsive and willing to prioritize her

emotional goals over her educational hobbies and moral principles. The turning factor in her

improvement occurs when she decides to engage in a romantic affair with Peter despite his

marriage (141). This selection illustrates her willingness to deviate from her initial experience of

morality and ambition. Her actions are driven by an extreme ardor and desire for Peter, reflecting

her developing emotional vulnerability. This shift in her individuality is evident when she says,

"I love you," to Peter, even though their love is clandestine and morally questionable (143).

As the protagonist's courting with Peter deepens, her personality also evolves. She

becomes increasingly conflicted, torn between her love for Peter and her know-how of the moral

implications of their affair. This inner conflict is meditated in her choice to leave Peter suddenly

in Sarajevo. Her departure signifies a rupture of their relationship and a moment of personal

reckoning. The rain in Sarajevo is a compelling symbol at some point in the story, mirroring the
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turbulent emotions and uncertainties that shape the protagonist's character. It represents the

unpredictable nature of love and relationships and the inner turmoil the protagonist reviews. Like

her evolving persona, the rain is relentless and uncontrollable, just like the course of her

romantic involvement with Peter.

In conclusion, the tale highlights the protagonist's transformation as she chooses to stroll

far from Peter. Her choice to depart him in Sarajevo demonstrates a newfound experience of

enterprise and self-recognition. She does not desire to be entangled in a love affair that conflicts

with her ethical values and jeopardizes her educational destiny. This final act of defiance

signifies her rejection of impulsive passion in favor of a more reasoned and principled technique

to life.

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