Generational Disconnect In Margaret Oliphant's The Graduate

Generational Disconnect

As Margaret Oliphant once wrote, “every generation has a conceit of itself which elevates it, in its own opinion, above that which comes after it”. Throughout time, each generation has held their own values above the values of others. They are reluctant to change their views and ideologies for the benefit of others. In The Graduate by Charles Webb, the protagonist, Benjamin Braddock, faces the struggle of understanding and being understood by his parents and their friends. When Ben attempts to find his own path in life, the older generation only adds more pressure. Through Benjamin’s symbolic interactions with members of the older generation, Charles Webb proves that the disconnect between generations is caused by the

Mr. And Mrs. Braddock decide to throw their son, Benjamin, a graduation party. Ben refuses to join the guests downstairs. This causes Mr. Braddock to interrogate Ben as to why he is upset and unwilling to attend the party. Mr. Braddock questions Ben by exclaiming, “‘I don’t know what’s got into you,’ …‘but whatever it is I want you to snap out of it and march right on down there’” (Webb 3). In this instance, Mr. Braddock displays his reluctance to truly understand the troubles his son faces. He urges Ben to ignore and hold back his feelings, which does nothing to console Ben. Mr. Braddock represents the older generation and their thoughts regarding internal conflicts. Unlike the younger generation, the older generation suppresses their personal feelings. Due to this difference in values, issues begin to manifest between Ben and his father. Moreover, when Ben eventually leaves his room to go out and clear his head, Mr. Braddock stops him. Ben tries to leave the house, but before he can “his father appeared beside him and put

Robinson, Webb affirms that the refusal to accept the changing ideals separates the older and younger generations. After his graduation party, Ben finds himself at the Robinsons’ house. Mr. Robinson insists that Ben stay to have a drink. While they drink, Mr. Robinson gives Ben advice on what to do with his