Answer: The main characters in Eleanor and Park learn several important lessons throughout the novel, including the importance of love, acceptance, and perseverance in the face of adversity. These themes are important because they highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the power of relationships to overcome obstacles.
One important lesson that Eleanor learns is the importance of self-worth and standing up for oneself. She is often bullied and ridiculed by her classmates, but through her relationship with Park, she learns to value herself and to stand up to those who mistreat her. For example, when she confronts her stepfather about his abusive behavior, she says, "You can't break me, xxxxas!sxxxxxholexxx" (Rowell 270). This quote highlights Eleanor's newfound sense of self-confidence and her refusal to be a victim.
Another important lesson that Park learns is the importance of empathy and understanding. At the beginning of the novel, he is dismissive of Eleanor and doesn't understand her struggles. However, as he gets to know her better, he begins to empathize with her and to see the world from her perspective. For example, he says, "It was weird, because all he wanted to do was protect her from the world... But sometimes he felt like the only part of the world that she needed protecting from was him" (Rowell 209). This quote shows how Park is starting to recognize his own biases and limitations and to strive for greater understanding and compassion.
Overall, the themes of love, acceptance, and perseverance are central to Eleanor and Park, as the characters learn important lessons about themselves and each other. These themes resonate with readers because they speak to the fundamental human experiences of connection, growth, and transformation. The quotes cited above demonstrate how the characters' experiences reflect these themes and illustrate their personal journeys towards self-discovery and self-acceptance.
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