Contrast between hardness and softness from "summary" of Hard Times by Charles Dickens
Throughout the novel, the theme of contrast between hardness and softness is evident in the characters, setting, and overall tone of the story. This duality is best exemplified in the stark differences between the utilitarian philosophy of Mr. Gradgrind and the more compassionate nature of Sissy Jupe. Mr. Gradgrind, with his strict adherence to facts and logic, represents the hard, unyielding nature of industrial society. He values rationality above all else, believing that emotions and imagination are worthless distractions. In contrast, Sissy Jupe embodies softness and empathy, seeing the world through a lens of kindness and understanding. The industrial setting of Coketown further emphasizes the contrast between hardness and softness. The dark, smoke-filled str...
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