Paul's Case and Araby Essay

PAUL'S CASE AND ARABY

Character Analysis

Paul's Case and Araby

In the short stories titled Paul's Case and Araby, both talk about the challenges that Paul and the young boy faces in the world around them. This is showing how different events and perceptions influence the way others see them and the opinions of themselves. These themes are designed to illustrate those factors that are affecting their attitudes, actions and behaviors. To fully understand what is happening requires conducting a detailed character analysis of Paul and the young boy. Together, these elements will illustrate how this is influencing the two characters and the lasting effects these concepts are having on them.

A character analysis of Paul in Paul's case

Paul is someone who has problems with authority. In Paul's Case, this is used to demonstrate his issues with authority figures and the way this holds him back. Throughout the entire work, this creates a conflict within him. As he feels like expressing himself and showing others that he is truly a good person. Yet, the negative attitudes and perceptions will continually stand in the way of anything he achieves.(Willa, 2009)

These perceptions become even more twisted when Paul shifts his views about others who are directly involved in the art world. In this situation, he has respect for these people and what they are trying to accomplish. This is because Paul is able to escape from this reality and go to a place he finds very enjoyable. The result is that he goes through periods where he is delusional. After he moves to New York City, is when these forces collide. This is takes place with Paul stealing money from an employer and living the lavish lifestyle he always envisioned for himself. During this process, he visits art museums and is mesmerized by the various works he sees. This adds to the sense of escape and denying what is really happening. After the money starts to run out, is the point that Paul realizes he is wanted by the police for what he did. His father pays back the money and goes to New York to find Paul. Only this time, Paul has disappeared and is continuing to live in this alternate reality. In this….....