Overview
Think of being part of a school play where you have a specific role. Instead of wishing to be the star, you focus on doing your best in your part, knowing that every role is important to the overall story.
The Choice
Should Anders help Eun-Kyung or focus on his own role?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.685367494824018
- Word Count
- 336 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anders and Eun-Kyung are part of a school play. Anders is assigned a supporting role, while Eun-Kyung is the lead. Anders initially feels disappointed because he wanted a bigger part. However, he decides to focus on doing his best in his role, knowing it contributes to the play's success. As rehearsals progress, Anders notices that Eun-Kyung is struggling with her lines and confidence. She confides in Anders, feeling overwhelmed and asking for his help. Anders is torn. He can either help Eun-Kyung, which might mean less time to perfect his own performance, or he can focus solely on his role, ensuring he performs it well. Anders now faces a choice: (A) Help Eun-Kyung with her role, or (B) Focus on perfecting his own performance.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Help Eun-Kyung with her role
Focus on perfecting his own role
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How does 'Accepting Our Roles in Life' apply here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anders here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
