4. "The Pedestrian" | HonorsEnglish

4. "The Pedestrian" by Ray Bradbury

Next up in exploring thematic elements in science fiction is "The Pedestrian" by Ray Bradbury:

In the futuristic world of 2053, where the night is dominated by TV screens, Leonard Mead stands out by embracing the outdoors. While others are glued to their screens, Leonard finds solace in long evening walks. His unconventional choice catches the eye of the authorities, leading to unexpected consequences.

In this thrilling tale, Ray Bradbury's predictions about TV prove to be off the mark, but the real danger lurks in the addictive realm of mobile device social networking. Join Leonard on a journey that challenges societal norms and explores the perils of a digital era where connection comes at a cost.

Ray Bradbury wrote "The Pedestrian" in 1950, during a period of significant social and technological change. The story was initially published in the August 7, 1951, issue of "The Reporter," a weekly magazine. This was a time when the Cold War was escalating, and concerns about the potential dehumanizing effects of technology were emerging.

During the 1950s, there was a growing fear of conformity and the dehumanizing impact of technological advancements, which is reflected in Bradbury's work. "The Pedestrian" is set in a dystopian future where technology and conformity have led to a society that suppresses individuality and isolates people.

The story was generally well-received for its thought-provoking exploration of the consequences of a technology-driven society. Bradbury's unique blend of science fiction and social commentary resonated with readers and critics alike. His works, including "The Pedestrian," contributed to his reputation as one of the most influential and celebrated science fiction writers of the 20th century. The themes explored in "The Pedestrian" remain relevant, inviting readers to reflect on the potential pitfalls of technological progress and the ethical implications that continue to be pertinent in today's world.

Get ready to step into the captivating world of Ray Bradbury's "The Pedestrian." This short story is not just a glimpse into the future; it's a thought-provoking exploration of a society transformed by technology and the consequences that follow.

Imagine a world where technology dictates every aspect of life, and taking a simple stroll becomes a revolutionary act. As you immerse yourselves in the narrative, consider the parallels between Bradbury's vision and our own modern reality. How do the ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial intelligence resonate with the challenges we face today?

"The Pedestrian" is more than a tale of a lone walker; it's a mirror reflecting the ever-relevant questions about the impact of technology on our lives and the ethical considerations that come with it. So, gear up for a literary adventure that transcends time and sparks reflections on the ethics of AI in our contemporary world.

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4b. Topics & Themes Feedback & "The Pedestrian"

4b.1 Video "How to Find a Theme"

Answer as you watch:

1. In what ways do themes relate and differ from subjects or topics, according to the speaker?

2. What is one subject and theme example he gives in the video?

3. How does the speaker suggest finding a theme within a story, and what examples does he use to support his explanation?

4b.2 Feedback on Theme "Choice Sci-Fi Story" Discussion Board

You also have copies of our theme notes in the "Pedestrian" folder on Schoology, Once notes are distributed, students are expected to follow the notes format in class and on assignments.

4b.3 Topics & Theme with Example in "The Pedestrian"

Example Topic & Theme in "The Pedestrian":

Topic: Censorship and Control (The restriction of freedom and expression by authorities.)

Theme Statement: The suppression and control of creativity and free thought by the authoritarian society depicted in the story, as evidenced by the character's solitary walks being considered suspicious and abnormal.

Now choose a topic to try and form your own theme statement from one of the options below from the story. While you read, you will write down evidence for the theme developing around your topic. You can track all three themes and see which one you see the most at the end for writing assessment.

Your goal is to write your own theme statement at the end of the story. Here are the topics below:

Technology and Society
Alienation and Isolation
Individuality vs. Conformity

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Many of Bradbury's stories revolve around the themes of humanity and technology. What is he saying about society through these topics?

When we explore these questions in his work, we can begin to understand the lessons or themes he wants us to discover as readers.

"The Pedestrian" TV Episode | The Ray Bradbury Theater
Optional Assessment Details Below

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The Ray Bradbury Theater (1985-192), a television series inspired by his works, serves as a visual gateway into the realms of imagination and reflection crafted by Bradbury. Bradbury hosts the show and we get to see him in person at the start of the video below.

In today's episode we step into the world of 'The Pedestrian,' a short story that not only challenges our perceptions of a future society but also resonates with the ethical implications of advancing technology, specifically artificial intelligence. As we navigate through the narrative, we'll unravel layers of meaning that shed light on both the wonders and potential pitfalls of a society shaped by technology and the ethical considerations that come with it.

First, pay attention to the differences between the short story text and the tv episode below. What are the differences? Why did Bradbury make these choices? How does film limit and expand story telling?

Pay attention to how the cinematic elements highlight the theme in this story:

Optional Theme and Evidence Assessment:

For an extra assessment attempt; watch the following episode of "The Pedestrian" and write down a topic and theme explored in the tv episode based on the story. Next, write down specific examples of how the TV show episode is able to show this theme differently throughout the story than the original text.

Make a point (what theme and topic were seen in the tv episode) and back it up (examples of how the tv episode showed the theme different than the original text) in one solid analysis paragraph explaining your ideas and connections. Type of your assessment on a google doc, save as a pdf, and upload here in Schoology:

Click to Upload Extra Credit

English 9 Honors
Ms. Cosgrove