ENG 102 Parallels Between the Botticelli Painting and Updike Story Paper

Can you draw any parallels between the Botticelli painting and Updike’s story? Is Sammy “heroic” in any sense of that word and, if so, in the name of what idea or principle does he quit his job for? Contrariwise, you may feel that his actions are just foolish and that he is, in some sense, just a foolish kid. If you feel that way, please express your reasons for that stance. Whatever your view of his actions, can you express an opinion on the role and/or importance of beauty in one’s life or in the world in general.

(*note: I realize that this is a large and complex question with several parts. Please don’t feel obligated to respond to every part of the question. For example, three (3) paragraphs on parallels between the painting and the story would be sufficient; as would the relationship between beauty in the abstract and the story itself) or on the question of Sammy as a hero or not.)