Evolution of Kino essays

Evolution of Kino essays In John Steinbecks novel The Pearl, Kino, the main character, went through a series of complicated changes due to money. He was greatly affected by the hunger for wealth and overall his life is destroyed because of lust and greed. This destruction is symbolized through the many forms that Kino portrays. At first a simple rabbit-like persona takes shape. When the greed spreads through society he becomes what readers see as a small mouse being circled by fierce predators in the sky. The final form of Kino is that of a wild dog. He seems to go to any length to protect his territory from intruders. Readers can compare the introduction of Kino to a rabbit. Like Kino, a rabbit seems peaceful, simply hopping about on a spring-like day with no worries at all. A kind and gentle creature with respect towards all walks of life. At the beginning Kino is seen as a loving father and husband. He has a mental connection with his wife, that shows his love and devotion to her. Also a timid dog befriends him which justifies his caring and general kindness for all. The Song of the Family plays through his head while Kino happily looks at his life and can think this is safety, this is warmth, this is the Whole." In the beginning his existence seems tranquil and completely safe. Kino transformed into a threatened mouse-like figure once the safety of his picture-perfect life was disturbed. After Coyotito is stung by the scorpion, the security of life as it had been before is gone. The Song of the Family is interrupted. Steinbeck foreshadows the change in the main character when Kino smashes his fist on the doctor's gate, after the doctors refusal to treat Coyotito. This event shows that Kino turns to violence and anger when confronted with a problem, yet when he does so he hurts only himself. At first the purpose of his great pearl of the world i ...