Question

In 5 sentences respond to Wild dogs are one symbol in the novel that represents fear. This symbol is essential because Ceaustecu based his entire dictatorship on creating fear throughout the country to isolate his people from each other and the rest of the world. The government creates fear in order to gain control. One way is by having them fear the animals they live with, specifically stray dogs that attack people because they are starving and wild (21). Cristian described the dog beginning to attack him as “...a prisoner too-denied food, shelter, and security. Beaten and driven to a state of desperation and savagery.” (229). The people and dogs were fearful because of the conditions put upon them. Like an owner knows their dog, takes care of them, and protects them, a person fears a random stray dog because there is no relationship, no knowledge of training, and no protection offered. The people of Romania do not trust their leaders and are fearful because the government has starved and not taken care of them. For these reasons, I agree that the stray dogs represent fear in this novel and help the reader to connect with that emotion on a smaller scale to understand the complexity of the historical leadership in Romania.

Answer 1

The presence of wild dogs in the novel serves as a powerful symbol of fear, mirroring Ceausescu's oppressive regime that thrived on creating fear to isolate and control the population. The government's manipulation of fear, as seen through the people's fear of starving stray dogs, highlights the tactics used to maintain authority. When Cristian describes the attacking dog as a "prisoner... driven to a state of desperation and savagery," it reflects the desperation and harsh conditions imposed on both the people and the dogs. This lack of trust and protection from the government is akin to the distrust between the people and the stray dogs, creating a poignant parallel. The use of this symbol helps readers comprehend the complexities of Romania's historical leadership and connect with the pervasive emotion of fear.

I hope this helped!

~~~Harsha~~~