Literature Essay Sample: Euthanasia in The Giver

Euthanasia is the practice of intentionally ending life to relieve pain and suffering. Doctors sometimes perform euthanasia when it's requested by people who have a terminal illness and are in a lot of pain. It's a complex process and involves weighing many factors. Euthanasia is one of the main issues in The Giver. They see release as an advantage to the community, while Jonas, knowing what it actually means is horrified. There is a debate about whether the novel is condemning, promoting, or conditionally accepting of euthanasia, and that is what I will be discussing in this novel.

How is euthanasia used in the novel?

In the book euthanasia is used for the elderly, the sick, the unwanted, and the people who apply for release (which in our community would be considered ‘assisted suicide’). As it says on page 143 “ ‘She left here that day, left this room, and did not go back to her dwelling. I was notified by the speaker that she had gone directly to the Chief Elder and asked to be released.’”. In this quote the giver is explaining how Rosemary had herself released and how he found out about it.

What was Jonas’s reaction to euthanasia?

Jonas had an accurate reaction to euthanasia. When he found out he was furious at the community for lying to him. As it says on page 152 “ ‘No one heard that little twin cry, either! No one but my father!’ He collapsed in sobs again”. In this quote Jonas had just seen the video of his father performing the release ceremony on the newborn twin and this was his reaction, he was horrified that something he used to see as a good thing is actually death. Jonas’s reaction proves that he does not support the practice of euthanasia and despises the people who do support the practice.

Does the novel condemn, promote, or conditionally accept the practice?

In my opinion, the novel condemns the practice of euthanasia. As it says on page 146 “‘I was only asking about release because my father is releasing a new child today. A twin. He has to select one and release the other one. They do it by weight.’ Jonas glanced at the clock. ‘Actually, I suppose he's already finished. I think it was this morning.’ The Giver's face took on a solemn look. ‘I wish they wouldn't do that,’ he said quietly, almost to himself”. The giver was saying that he wished they wouldn’t perform release.