The Story of Doctor Dolittle · Question
How does The Story of Doctor Dolittle develop the theme of Communication and Understanding?
Answer
The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting develops Communication and Understanding across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The Doctor's ability to learn animal language breaks down barriers between species, highlighting the importance of listening and understanding others, whether they are animals or people, to foster cooperation and empathy.
Doctor Dolittle learns that animals have a complex language, enabling him to understand and treat them effectively.
Polynesia communicates with flying-fish and porpoises, showing cross-species understanding and cooperation.
Polynesia uses her ability to mimic human speech to deceive the King, demonstrating the power of language and clever communication.
Evidence in the book
- Animal Language
Doctor Dolittle learns that animals have a complex language, enabling him to understand and treat them effectively.
- The Great Journey
Polynesia communicates with flying-fish and porpoises, showing cross-species understanding and cooperation.
- VI: Polynesia and the King
Polynesia uses her ability to mimic human speech to deceive the King, demonstrating the power of language and clever communication.
- The Rats’ Warning
The Doctor communicates with rats and canaries, receiving warnings and guidance.
- XVI: Too-Too, the Listener
Too-Too's extraordinary listening ability demonstrates deep understanding beyond ordinary senses, highlighting the theme of communication.
- VII: The Ocean Gossips
Doctor Dolittle uses his ability to speak animal languages to communicate with the porpoises and learn the fate of the boy's uncle.
- Smells
The Doctor communicates with eagles and Jip to solve the problem, highlighting cross-species cooperation.
