Take-home Final Exam - Term Paper Example

Although the two characters share interest in literature and philosophy, nothing happens between them until the death of a restaurant critic who lived on the second floor where a businessman, Ozu reveals their secrets. The Elegance of the Hedgehog is very significant to the readers as it examines themes in both literature and philosophy. Barbery confesses that he had followed a long, boring course of studying philosophy to help understand what surrounds him. Barbery also says that literature taught him more on the exploration of philosophy to one’s life and how to survive.

I recommend the novel because it addresses the themes of class conscious and conflict as it talks about French class-based discrimination and hypocrisy of the characters to maintain their social status. The book also has literary allusions, referencing comic books, movies, music and paintings that can motivate the readers to continue reading. In addition, such literary styles instill literary skills and knowledge to readers both in philosophy and literary works. The novel is rich with themes that are applicable to the real life situation, among other areas, for instance, the issue of personal conflict.

This is evident where Renee is not comfortable with herself and gives a low definition of herself. This particular theme applies to many individuals in real life situation and, therefore, the reader identifies with it. The book also reveals two distinct classes of living: high class and low class. Paloma represents the individuals of high class living while Renee represents individuals of the low class though feigned. This aspect exposes the reader to the two social and economic states which in real sense is hard to understand.

Additionally, the book provides diversity in an age where Paloma is only 12 years old while Renee is 54 years old. This makes the literary work a good and comfortable material for