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Doppelganger

In: English and Literature

Submitted By ksoc
Words 588
Pages 3
A text is shaped by the circumstances in which It was composed, this is certainly true of Michael Parkers Doppelganger. Parker s 2006 Dystopian novel illustrates the ideas of thirst for power and darkness within humanity as the protagonist Andrew is placed in a dystopian parallel of his own world. These ideas reflect the major concerns of late 20th century Australian society. Parker examines deeper issues and illuminates universal aspects of the human condition. Parker exposes the potential for the darker side of humanity in Doppelganger, reflecting issues of his context. Cleary derived from themes in modern literature, such as Golding's "Lord of Flies" which examines the conflict between two competing impulses in all human beings, the instinct to live by rules, act peacefully and follow moral commands opposed to acting selfishly to gratify ones immediate desires. The darker side of humanity is introduced through Andrew’s character, an ordinary Australian teenager governed by his philosophy "don’t disturb the world and it won’t disturb you”. Andrew finds himself incapable of standing up for what he knows is right and this is exemplified early in the novel when Josh in an act of unprovoked evil, tears apart miss swains photograph. Andrew, convinced he is “hardwired” to be compliant with josh, aids his vindictive nature as it is easier than standing up for what he knows to be right. Andrew discovers his own darkness in the parallel Sydney, under the influence of mind altering drugs when he murders another boy in a response to his primitive urges. Incited by the chanting “Kill boy, kill boy”, Parker’s use of repetition illustrates the manipulation that overcomes Andrew, taking away his morality and enabling him to kill another human. Clearly Parker exposes the potential for the darker side of humanity through his character of Andrew as he is lead astray.
Parker’s

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