Thesis. A thesis is a main idea that is supported in a work of nonfiction prose. As you read “Shooting An Elephant,” make notes on the ideas Orwell explores. What do you think the main thesis of the selection is?
Irony. Irony is a difference between appearance and reality. As you read this essay, consider what is ironic about the situation Orwell describes. Note examples of the divergence of appearance and reality.
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“Shooting an Elephant” is an essay in which Orwell recalls an incident that took place in Burma during his years as a police officer of the Imperial British government. An elephant has run mad and trampled a man to death. Orwell is called upon to respond and finds himself having to choose between doing what he feels is right, and doing what he believes the natives expect of him as a representative of the power of the British crown.
When have you felt pressured by the expectations of other people to do something you did not want to do?
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