Overview
Think of a child in a school play who is cast as a tree. Instead of feeling disappointed, they embrace their role and give a great performance, understanding that every part is important in the story.
The Choice
Should Diego help Jae succeed or focus on making his own small role shine?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.348521448128995
- Word Count
- 346 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Diego and Jae are part of the school's annual play. Diego is cast as a tree, a role he finds boring, while Jae gets a lead role. Diego feels overlooked and considers not putting effort into his part. However, the teacher emphasizes that every role is crucial for the play's success. Diego notices that Jae is struggling with lines and needs help. Diego now faces a choice: (A) spend his rehearsal time helping Jae with lines, because the play's success depends on the lead doing well, or (B) focus entirely on perfecting his own small role, because his first duty is to do his own part well.
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
Spend his rehearsal time helping Jae with lines, because the play's success depends on the lead doing well
Focus entirely on perfecting his own small role, because that is the part he was given and his first duty is to do it well
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 'Acting Your Part' apply here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Diego 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.
