ENGLISH MEBY

旅行、環境問題、そして人間の責任:小説『森のささやき』から読み解く」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The novel "Whispers of the Woods", set in the fictional Southeast Asian country of Avani, intertwines the experiences of three distinct characters whose lives are unexpectedly connected by the issue of deforestation. Maya, a young eco-tourist from Canada, embarks on a meticulously planned backpacking trip through Avani's lush rainforests, documenting the biodiversity for her university thesis. Her journey, however, takes an unexpected turn when she witnesses illegal logging activities firsthand, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of environmental destruction. Meanwhile, in a nearby village, we meet Jian, a local farmer whose family has relied on the forest for generations. He struggles to maintain his livelihood as the forest shrinks, leading to soil erosion and decreased crop yields. The disappearance of the forest directly impacts his economic stability and his cultural heritage, inextricably linked to the forest's bounty. His family's traditional way of life is threatened by forces far beyond his control. Finally, there is Mr. Lee, a wealthy businessman from the capital city, driving the logging operations. He views the forest as a resource to be exploited, a source of immense profit that fuels his ambition. He sees the economic growth of Avani as inseparable from the extraction of its natural resources, even if it comes at the expense of the environment and local communities. His perspective highlights a conflict between economic development and environmental conservation. The novel doesn't offer easy answers but encourages readers to consider the complex interplay of tourism, economic growth, and environmental protection. Maya's privileged perspective contrasts sharply with Jian's struggle for survival, while Mr. Lee represents the often-unseen forces that drive deforestation. The narrative subtly challenges readers to question their own consumption habits and the ethical implications of their travel choices.

1. What is the primary conflict explored in "Whispers of the Woods"?

2. How does the novel portray the character of Mr. Lee?

3. What is the significance of Maya's character in the narrative?

4. What is the author's main purpose in writing "Whispers of the Woods"?