In Cold Blood Controversy Essay

Izzie Cruea
Ms. Salley
English 3 HN
3 March 2023
In Cold Blood Controversy
Learning takes many forms and requires the discussion of uncomfortable topics. Capote's novel In Cold Blood, published in 1966, follows the true story of the murder of the Clutter family in Holcomb, Kansas. Through the two main characters, Dick Hickock and Perry Smith, Capote highlights the two men conspiring to rob the Clutter family; however, they end up gruesomely murdering them. Dick and Perry come from completely different backgrounds and Capote leaves the reader wondering if their childhood experiences had an effect on their decisions as adults. Dick and Perry had no intentions of killing in the beginning however, they are left running from the police with no plan

While most would focus on the victims of the case, Capote focuses on the background of the killers and their reasoning behind committing crimes. Sympathy was demonstrated, specifically for Perry, when arrested. Capote, “found it possible to look at the man beside him without anger - with, rather, a measure of sympathy - for Perry Smith's life had been no bed of roses but pitiful, an ugly and lonely progress toward one mirage and then another'' (Capote 246). While many would feel Dick and Perry deserved to die, Capote has an unpopular perspective by showing sympathy for the killers based on their past. Capote creates a sympathetic tone towards Perry and creates disputable topics about the flawed justice system. There are strong advocates on both sides of the topic. A Santa Clara University study suggests, “Capital punishment is often defended on the grounds that society has a moral obligation to protect the safety and welfare of its citizens”(Andre). Still others argue that the death penalty is a cruel punishment and should be abolished. This topic should be addressed in schools as a way to open up all perspectives of students on capital punishment and encourage healthy

While allowing them in schools may come with a compromise, such as depictions of violence, profanity, or controversial topics, they provide a more honest approach to the world. The violence discussed in the book should be used for educating students about the world ahead of them and how they can make a difference. Capital punishment discussions can lead to healthy debates teaching children that it is okay to have different opinions while preparing them for similar experiences they may have in their lives. The profanity used in the book can be used as a positive tool in the classroom by addressing the language and finding alternative words to express feelings. In Cold Blood will not be able to enlighten students on the topics discussed if eradicated from our schools. The violence, profanity, and death penalty references in, In Cold Blood, can be used positively to teach profound