Narrator’s Dilemma in "Hills Like White Elephants"

Often in literature, characters have to make important choices, even when the outcomes are equally unpleasant. This is called a dilemma, and many students will be able to identify with being stuck “between a rock and a hard place”, much like characters are in their various conflicts in a story. Have students analyze the dilemma the Jig is facing as they read and speculate on the potential outcomes of the her choice. Have them incorporate their findings into a storyboard like the example below.

Introduction

The American man wants Jig to have an abortion so they can go back to their normal lives of traveling and drinking and being carefree. Jig is hesitant, but seems to acquiesce because she wants to make him happy. However, she knows that her decision is complicated, and she finds herself in a dilemma.

Problem 1

If Jig has the abortion, she and the American man will go back to their carefree lifestyle, but something will be broken between them. She knows they will never be as happy as they were before, and they will probably continue to drift apart.

Problem 2

If Jig has the baby, the American man will be unhappy and she will likely lose him or feel guilty for not having the abortion. They will lose their carefree lifestyle, and having a baby is a lifetime commitment.