Uglies Scott Westerfeld Analysis

Society seems to hold beauty to a higher standard than wit. Cosmetics companies don’t hire geniuses to capture the attention of the public. In Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies, beauty is seen as a necessity—and intelligence is cast aside. However, throughout the book, it becomes obvious that sometimes, cleverness is a greater asset than looks. As the scene of the story is being set, it becomes apparent that Tally is a rule-breaker among uglies. She skips classes, goes into forbidden areas, and, most importantly, ‘tricks’ the cities technology using her wit. Because Tally lives in dull Uglyville, she longs to go to the excitement of New Pretty Town, where the Pretties party every day. However, she isn’t allowed to until she turns sixteen. So, “she and Peris had figured out how to trick the houseminder” (4). This allowed them to escape Uglyville and have adventures crossing the river that separates Uglyville and New Pretty Town, an experience Pretties would never get to have. Clearly, being clever in this situation is a greater asset than being attractive. …show more content…
As she reaches a branch of the river she is following, the riddle reads to, “take the side you despise” (161). Before long, Tally remembers telling Shay that she hates the right side of her face during a conversation where Shay also reveals that she wants to stay ugly. Tally realizes how important the conversation was to Shay because she can put herself into Shay’s shoes. Because of this ability, Tally picks the right direction and finds Shay. Indubitably, this is evidence that intelligence can be a more useful resource than physical