Characterization of Alice and Ben in Dialogue

Very Hard Prose Analysis Characterization

Read the following excerpt from a novel where two characters, Alice and Ben, are engaged in a heated discussion about their differing worldviews. Alice is an idealist, believing in the inherent goodness of people, while Ben is a pragmatic realist, who thinks that self-interest drives human behavior. Analyze how the author characterizes these two characters throughout their conversation.

'You really think everyone has the potential for kindness?' Alice challenged, her voice rising slightly. 'Look at the world around us—corruption and greed are everywhere.'
'And yet,' Ben replied with a hint of a smile, 'if we only focus on the negative, we miss the small acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. Not every motive is sinister.'
'But who benefits from that naivety?' Alice countered fiercely, her brow furrowing.
'Perhaps, it's not about benefit but about perspective,' Ben responded gently, his tone calming. 'You can choose to see the good, even in the midst of chaos.'

Alice is depicted as overly optimistic, while Ben represents a balanced viewpoint.

Alice's arguments lack depth, whereas Ben is portrayed as the more thoughtful character.

Both characters display a transformation in their beliefs by the end of the conversation.

Alice's forthrightness is illustrated through her passionate responses, while Ben's calm demeanor illustrates his reflective nature.

Ben’s responses indicate that he is ultimately unsuccessful in persuading Alice.

Hint

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