Peer pressure, social norms and wanting to fit in affect how individuals take responsibility for themselves and others. How do young individuals manage against negative influences? Should individuals allow themselves to be governed by others? “Initiation”, a story by Sylvia Plath, demonstrates how the protagonist, Millicent, faces daunting obstacles to join the Lansing Highs’ sorority. Millicent believes that the sorority is what she needs to “spice up” her high school social life while making her more popular. Wanting to become a part of something greater, Millicent faces many challenges. Throughout the story Millicent realizes who she truly wanted to be identified as, unfolding a journey to paving a path for her own future. Plath explores …show more content…
“‘I know, but even so,’ Tracy said quietly, ‘you'll change, whether you think you will or not. Nothing ever stays the same.’" Even when Tracy was insecure about Millicent joining the sorority, Millicent takes responsibility by standing beside Tracy. “Generally, the girls who were outsiders now, as Millicent had been, scoffed at the initiation antics as childish and absurd to hide their secret envy. But Tracy was understanding, as ever.” (4) Throughout the story it’s stated that when individuals have become elected to the sorority, they will put on a “disapproving” look that covers their envious thoughts of a true friend. Millicent continues to tell Tracy about the experiences she experienced with the “elected” few. Millicent continues to show responsibility near the end of the story. Millicent was given the task by Beverely Mitchell on their bus ride to Lewiston. "’It's fifteen minutes before the bus gets into town,’ Bev was saying then. "I want you to go up and down the bus asking people what they eat for breakfast.” On the bus ride, Millicent is ordered to ask passengers what they had for breakfast. “He was small and jolly, with a ruddy, wrinkled face that spread into a beaming smile as