Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway

In a time period where abortion was illegal in most parts of Europe and America, and where women could be faced with excommunication by the Catholic Church if they obtained an abortion, suddenly the conversation between the American man and Jig becomes one of grave importance, both to their own well-beings, and to their relationship. However, neither person seems willing to openly communicate what choice they would like to make. This story explores the themes of choices, breakdowns in communication, and gender roles.

Plot Diagram

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Literary Conflict

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Themes and Symbols

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Dilemma

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Visual Vocabulary

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Essential Questions for “Hills Like White Elephants”

1. Why is it important to be open and honest when communicating about a difficult topic?
2. What are some of the reasons why women consider having an abortion?
3. How important is it to have reproductive choices?
4. How does the author portray gender through conversation?

Controversial Topics like Abortion in the English Classroom

Students will likely have differing viewpoints and feelings about abortions, as it is a very emotionally-charged political issue. That is what makes “Hills Like White Elephants” an excellent tool to use to teach about a controversial topic, and have students be able to discuss their ideas in an academic manner.

For students, abortion has been legal for their entire lives. In the 1973 landmark Supreme Court case Roe vs. Wade, the justices ruled in a 7-2 decision that a Texas law barring a woman from having an abortion unless her life was in danger was unconstitutional. This was followed up with a 7-2 decision by the same court in the Doe vs. Bolton case, where they ruled that a Georgia abortion law barring abortions except for the cases of rape, fetal deformities, and danger to the mother’s life was also unconstitutional. These rulings essentially opened up access for women to seek abortions until the age of viability for the fetus. Up until 1973, many women sought abortions in secret and illegally, and as a result, many women died from complications of the procedure. Planned Parenthood now states that an abortion is one of the safest medical procedures a woman can have, with a 99% safety record.

Abortion as a topic can make for a very animated opinion paper, research paper, and debate forum in the classroom, as long as all sides are respectful of others’ opinions. It may be enlightening for students to hear from other students’ points of view.

Editor's Note: On June 24, 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade setting off a wave of protests and outrage by abortion rights activists. Immediately, new laws were proposed state by state that banned or greatly limited access to abortion as well as some states that declared they would protect the right to abortion. This topic continues to evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway

What is the main theme of “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway?

The main theme of “Hills Like White Elephants” is the complexity of communication and the struggle with choices, particularly regarding reproductive rights and gender roles. The story uses subtle dialogue to explore difficult decisions and emotional conflict.

How can teachers discuss abortion sensitively using “Hills Like White Elephants” in class?

Teachers can foster respectful, academic discussion by focusing on historical context, character perspectives, and the impact on communication and relationships. Encouraging open dialogue, setting ground rules, and supporting diverse opinions helps create a safe learning environment.

What are effective activities or lesson ideas for teaching “Hills Like White Elephants”?

Effective lesson ideas include debates on controversial topics, character analysis, exploring themes through opinion papers, and using storyboards to visualize the characters’ emotional states and choices.

Why is communication important in “Hills Like White Elephants”?

Communication is central to the story, showing how avoiding honesty leads to tension and misunderstanding. The dialogue reveals deeper issues about decision-making and relationship dynamics.

How does “Hills Like White Elephants” relate to reproductive rights and historical context?

The story reflects the social stigma and legal restrictions around abortion in the 1920s, highlighting the emotional impact and limited choices women faced, while connecting to ongoing debates about reproductive rights today.