Below is a common fable up for discussion. I have adjusted the story a little to make it more interesting in terms of self-reflection.
Sam was in love with Chris.
Chris lived on the shore of a river which separated the two lovers.
The river was teeming with poisonous snakes.
Sam wanted to cross the river to be with Chris but unfortunately, the bridge had been washed out. Sam went to ask Pat, the owner of a riverboat to take them across. Pat said “I would be glad to if you would consent to having sex prior to the trip across.” Sam refused and went to Alex to explain the situation. Alex wanted nothing to do with it.
Sam felt that the only solution to getting to Chris was to accept Pats terms. After having sex with Sam, Pat fulfilled the promise.
Once united with Sam and after hearing about what they did to get across the river, Chris cast aside Sam with disdain. Broken-hearted by the rejection, Sam turned to Alex and told them what had happened.
Alex, having sympathy for Sam, sought out Chris and brutally beat them. Sam was overjoyed at the sight of Chris getting beaten and laughed at their misfortune.
Discussion:
How would you rank the behavior of each of the 4 characters and what is the justification?
(IE. Who had the worst behaviour and why?)
How would you describe the characters?
Thinking about the characteristics of the characters can demonstrate our own biases or perspectives.
If anyone is willing to engage in a discussion then I will certainly provide my own interpretations and perspectives as well.