What Is The Conflict In The Most Dangerous Game

Camille Albrecht

Ms. Silver Honors English 9, Block 4

7 March 2023

How Conflict can Influence a Change in Character

In the world, people often face conflicts that can change their lives. These conflicts can arise when people disagree with one another, make important decisions, or persevere through obstacles. While these conflicts may not always be positive, they can cause someone to learn something over time. A similar idea is demonstrated in Richard Connell’s short story "The Most Dangerous Game.” In the story, the protagonist Rainsford finds himself stranded on Ship Trap island with a psychotic hunter named General Zaroff who holds sailors captive and hunts them for sport. When Rainsford accepts hospitality from Zaroff, he is

In the beginning of the story, Rainsford was extremely insensitive towards the animals that he hunts. When Whitney and Rainsford discuss their hunting plans while traveling to Ship Trap island, Whitney argues that hunting is only beneficial to the hunter, not to the prey that is being hunted. In response, Rainsford says, “‘Don't talk rot, Whitney…You're a big game hunter, not a philosopher. Who cares how a jaguar feels?’ ‘Perhaps the jaguar does’, observed Whitney. ‘Bah! They’ve got no understanding’” (54). Through Connell’s use of indirect characterization, readers can conclude that Rainsford has an extremely unsympathetic outlook on hunting and the value of life. He does not mind killing living beings and even believes that he has the right to kill because he is a superior individual. Furthermore, Rainsford believes that the animals that he hunts are not capable of feeling any emotion at all. Connell also characterizes Rainsford as an extremely self-centered individual at the beginning of the story. For example, Rainsford only takes into consideration his own enjoyment while hunting and does not show any remorse for killing any of the animals that he has hunted. When Whitney points out that animals must not enjoy being targeted by hunters, Rainsford dismisses this by saying, “Nonsense, laughed Rainsford. This hot weather is making you soft, Whitney. Be a realist. The world is made up of two classes - the hunters and the huntees” (55). Rainsford's attitude toward hunting is further outlined in this quote. It is evident from Rainsford's conversation with Whitney that he has a strong passion for hunting and views it as a sport, not considering the feelings of the animals he hunts. From his point of view, there are prey and predators in the world. This causes him to gain the impression that no one who considers themselves a professional hunter