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Shaun Tan The Rabbits Essay

817 Words4 Pages

"The Rabbits," written by John Marsden and illustrated by Shaun Tan, is a profound allegory of colonization, illustrating the devastating impact of European settlers on Indigenous Australian land and culture. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of native animals, depicted as numbats, who observe the arrival and subsequent domination of their homeland by the rabbits, symbolic of the colonizers. The introduction of new technologies and lifestyles leads to environmental degradation and cultural displacement overwhelming the native animals. Through the use of satirical devices, including visual and language features, the author effectively conveys the message that colonization had a negative impact on the environment and Australia’s First Nations …show more content…

Conversely, the British settlers are depicted as rabbits, characterized by their invasive nature, technological advancements, and aggressive expansion. This contrast positions the reader to sympathize with the Indigenous characters, who face environmental destruction and cultural displacement due to the rabbits' actions. For instance, the numbats' initial curiosity and peaceful coexistence are shattered as the rabbits' industrialization leads to deforestation and pollution, vividly illustrated by Shaun Tan's surreal, chaotic landscapes. These representations effectively highlight the detrimental impact of colonization, encouraging readers to empathize with the plight of Australia's First Nations people and critically reflect on the historical consequences of European …show more content…

Language of judgment is employed to portray the rabbits, representing the British settlers, in a negative light. For example, the text describes the rabbits' arrival as "they came by water," implying an invasive and forceful entry. This language positions readers to view the rabbits as intruders, setting a tone of critique towards colonization. Language of affect is also used to evoke emotional responses from readers. When describing the impact of the rabbits' activities on the environment, the text uses phrases like "the land had changed," creating a sense of loss and sadness. These aesthetic features work together to evoke empathy and reflection in readers, prompting them to consider the consequences of colonization and its effects on Indigenous

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