Examples Of Bowman's Transformation In 2001 A Space Odyssey

In 2001 A Space Odyssey the characters undergo significant transformations, sometimes spectacularly, other times in deep and humbling decisions. Transcending space time, self-awareness of a machine, and willing self-isolation are all transformations observed in this text. I will examine Bowman’s descent into the Japetus monolith, HAL and the hibernation pods, and Bowman as he descends into isolation. The first fundamental transformation in 2001 is when David Bowman passes through the Star Gate on Japetus. When he exclaims "The thing's hollow - it goes on forever - and - oh my God! - it's full of stars!" (39 – Into The Eye) Bowman becomes the first human to experience the true power of the ancient monoliths. It could be considered that it is because of HAL’s malfunction, leaving the hibernation pods inoperable, allowed Bowman to carry out the expedition he did knowing that “He

The first time his very existence is threatened with an electronic “death” he responds in a way that signifies his transformation into self-awareness. HAL’s emotional responses to the threat of his own artificial life stem from the feelings that developed from hiding the missions’ true purpose from his fellow crewmembers. This causes his internal system to throw errors, which end up internally justifying his actions to keep Poole and Bowman from learning of the mission’s true goal. His transformation ends up killing Poole, as inspection of the communications equipment would have revealed his treachery. It also ends the lives of the hibernating crew members, who HAL killed in an attempt to justify “following the orders that had been given to him in case of the ultimate emergency, he would continue the mission - unhindered, and alone.” (27 – Need to