Paul’s Attitude Transformation in Hotel Rwanda

The movie “Hotel Rwanda” is a gripping portrayal of the Rwandan genocide that took place in 1994. Directed by Terry George, the film sheds light on the horrifying events that unfolded during the genocide and the heroic actions of Paul Rusesabagina, the protagonist. Against the backdrop of immense violence and chaos, Paul’s attitude undergoes a significant transformation throughout the movie. This article delves into the evolution of Paul’s mindset, exploring his initial self-preservation focus, his growing concern for others, the turning point that compels him to assist, the role of empathy and understanding in his transformation, and his heroic actions to save lives.

Paul’s Initial Self-Preservation Focus

At the beginning of the movie, Paul’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of his family. As a manager at the Hotel Des Milles Collines, Paul uses his position to secure their protection within the hotel’s walls. His actions are driven by fear and desperation, as the genocide escalates and threatens their lives. Paul demonstrates unwavering determination to shield his wife and children from the imminent danger posed by the Hutu extremists.

Furthermore, Paul’s dedication to his family’s safety is evident in his resourcefulness and quick thinking. He negotiates with corrupt officials, bribes them, and uses his connections to ensure that his loved ones remain unharmed. His actions exemplify his selflessness and willingness to do whatever it takes to safeguard his family.

Growing Concern for Others

As the atrocities of the genocide continue to unfold, Paul’s perspective broadens, and he becomes increasingly aware of the suffering of others. Pivotal events, such as witnessing violent acts against innocent Tutsis and interacting with refugees seeking shelter, trigger a shift in his perception. He witnesses firsthand the horrors inflicted upon his fellow Rwandans, and this begins to erode the walls of self-preservation that once consumed him.

Paul’s transformation is evident in his initial small gestures towards helping others survive. He provides shelter, supplies, and emotional support to those seeking refuge in the hotel. These acts of kindness reflect a growing empathy for the plight of his fellow countrymen and a realization that his actions can make a difference in their lives.

Compelled to Assist

A turning point in Paul’s attitude occurs when he realizes that everyone, regardless of their ethnicity or social status, is facing the same threats and atrocities. He understands that the divisions between Hutus and Tutsis are arbitrary in the face of such widespread violence. This realization compels Paul to move beyond self-preservation and take a stand against the injustice unfolding around him.

Paul’s moral awakening stems from a deep-rooted sense of humanity and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all people. He understands that by helping others, he not only saves lives but also preserves the shared humanity that binds them together. This newfound sense of responsibility drives him to act selflessly and courageously.

Empathy and Understanding

Empathy plays a crucial role in Paul’s transformation. As he witnesses the unimaginable suffering and loss experienced by those around him, his empathy deepens. He internalizes the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for action. Paul realizes that remaining passive in the face of such atrocities would be a betrayal of his own humanity.

Moreover, Paul’s understanding of the dire circumstances faced by all the people around him fuels his determination to make a difference. He comprehends that his actions, no matter how small, can provide hope and save lives. This understanding empowers him to take risks and make personal sacrifices for the greater good.

Paul’s Heroic Actions

In the face of immense danger, Paul displays extraordinary courage and heroism. He goes to great lengths to protect and shelter those in need, defying the Hutu extremists and risking his own life in the process. Paul uses his negotiation skills, resourcefulness, and connections to secure food, water, and medical supplies for the refugees in the hotel.

Paul’s selfless acts include forging alliances, bribing officials, and using his persuasive abilities to maintain a semblance of order and safety. He navigates through a treacherous landscape, constantly adapting to the changing circumstances, and never losing sight of the humanity he strives to protect.

Conclusion

In “Hotel Rwanda,” Paul Rusesabagina’s attitude undergoes a profound transformation from a self-preservation focus to a deep sense of compassion and empathy for others. The film portrays his journey from a man driven by fear and desperation to a courageous hero who takes a stand against the genocide. Paul’s evolution serves as a testament to the enduring message of compassion and humanity even in the darkest of times.

The resources used for this article include:

1. “Hotel Rwanda Assignment – Taran Bhatia HRE 4M1 12/16/20 Hotel Rwanda Discussion Questions.” Course Hero. (Link: https://www.coursehero.com/file/90346287/Hotel-Rwanda-Assignment/)
2. “Hotel Rwanda: Individual heroism or interconnectedness in the portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina?” by Marthie Momberg. Scriptura, vol. 115, 2016. (Link: http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S2305-445X2016000100003)

Please note that the content of the article is a summary and does not include specific scenes or dialogues from the movie. To enhance the article’s quality and relevancy, it is recommended to incorporate more detailed information and examples from the film itself.

FAQs

What factors contribute to the change in Paul’s attitude in Hotel Rwanda?

Answer: Paul’s attitude undergoes a significant transformation due to several factors, including witnessing the atrocities inflicted upon innocent Tutsis, interacting with refugees seeking shelter, realizing the shared threats faced by all individuals, and developing a deep sense of empathy and understanding for others.

How does Paul initially prioritize his actions in the movie?

Answer: Initially, Paul’s primary focus is on the safety and well-being of his own family. He uses his position as a hotel manager to secure their protection and employs resourcefulness and quick thinking to ensure their safety amidst the escalating violence.

What events trigger Paul’s growing concern for others?

Answer: Paul’s growing concern for others is triggered by witnessing violent acts against innocent Tutsis, interacting with refugees seeking shelter at the hotel, and observing the immense suffering experienced by his fellow Rwandans during the genocide.

What role does empathy play in Paul’s attitude transformation?

Answer: Empathy plays a crucial role in Paul’s transformation. As he witnesses the suffering and loss experienced by those around him, his empathy deepens, and he internalizes the gravity of the situation. This understanding fuels his determination to make a difference and drives him to take selfless and courageous actions.

What is the turning point in Paul’s attitude transformation?

Answer: The turning point in Paul’s attitude transformation occurs when he realizes that everyone, regardless of their ethnicity or social status, is facing the same threats and atrocities. This realization compels him to move beyond self-preservation and take a stand against the injustice unfolding around him.

How does Paul’s understanding of the gravity of the situation drive his actions?

Answer: Paul’s understanding of the dire circumstances faced by all the people around him fuels his determination to make a difference. He comprehends that his actions, no matter how small, can provide hope and save lives. This understanding empowers him to take risks and make personal sacrifices for the greater good.

What courageous acts does Paul undertake to save others?

Answer: Paul performs numerous courageous acts to save others, including providing shelter, securing food and supplies, forging alliances, bribing officials, and using his negotiation skills to maintain order and safety. He risks his own life and navigates through treacherous circumstances to protect and shelter those in need.

What is the significance of Paul’s attitude change in the narrative of Hotel Rwanda?

Answer: Paul’s attitude change is significant as it showcases the transformation of an individual from a state of self-preservation to one of compassion and empathy for others. His actions highlight the enduring message of compassion and humanity even in the face of extreme adversity, making his story a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.