In 300 words or less, explain how the external conflicts in “The Most Dangerous Game” or “The Hounds of Zaroff” create an internal conflict within Sanger Rainsford.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
In “The Most Dangerous Game,” the external conflict between Sanger Rainsford and General Zaroff creates a deep internal conflict within Rainsford. Initially, Rainsford is a hunter with a clear belief in the superiority of humans over animals, which leads him to dismiss the suffering of his prey. However, as Zaroff forces him into a deadly game of survival, Rainsford experiences the terror and vulnerability of being hunted. This sudden shift in perspective forces him to reevaluate his view on hunting and life.
The external conflict of being hunted by Zaroff mirrors an internal struggle, as Rainsford must reconcile his survival instincts with his moral code. In the beginning, he sees hunting as a noble pursuit, but once placed in the role of prey, he confronts the brutality of the game firsthand. This dilemma forces Rainsford to reconsider his values, ultimately leading to a transformation in his character. He goes from being an arrogant hunter to someone who understands the fear and helplessness of the hunted.
This internal conflict culminates in Rainsford’s final act of killing Zaroff, symbolizing the resolution of his internal struggle. He embraces his primal instincts for survival, and by doing so, his view on life and hunting is forever changed. The external threat of Zaroff’s game thus acts as a catalyst for Rainsford’s personal evolution, blurring the line between predator and prey, and compelling him to confront his own humanity.
