Modernism vs. Postmodernism

The characters in each of these stories have many similarities but also have many differences. Each of these stories shows that the characters were going through similar situations that forced them to rely solely on their own backgrounds and beliefs to handle their situations. It was these backgrounds and beliefs that influenced them to make their overall decisions that inevitably made the characters differ from one another. The characters that help me best understand the differences between Modernism and Postmodernism are the Chancellor from “The Obsolete Man”, and Yolanda from “The Rudy Elmenhurst Story”. I believe the Chancellor is a great example of Modernism, because of his inability to accept anything different. In “The Obsolete Man”, during the trial, he explains to Wordsworth how there is no religion or any books because the states declared that there were no books after they destroyed them. He also exemplifies Modernism when he explains that not everyone has a purpose according to the state, and if a person’s purpose is not “useful” to the state you would be declared obsolete. As far as Postmodernism, I believe Yolanda from “The Rudy Elmenhurst Story” is a great example. Although Yolanda comes from a strict upbringing, she still displays a Postmodernism perspective because of her ability to think for herself and not resort to peer-pressure. By being open to her surroundings, not allowing Rudy to take advantage of her, and overall making her own decisions, is a great example of Postmodern behavior.