Paul's Case Literary Analysis
Lizzy Timms
Point of View
The third person omniscient narrator gives greater insight into Paul's situation. By showing his peers' and teachers' opinions of Paul, we see how bizarre Paul comes off to the rest of the world. The narrator also shows us Paul's thoughts, by which we gain insight into Paul's reasoning. This image is representative of the point of view because the narrator sees the story from all perspectives, much like a bird's eye view.
Characterization
Throughout the novel Paul is characterized as a self absorbed and depressed teenager. However, the order that the story is presented in helps justify Paul's actions to the reader. Thus, Paul is a complex character. The image at left demonstrates Paul's sad and complex nature.
Setting
The different settings in the story cause different Paul to experience different moods. He detests his school and his suburban home, but admires Carnegie Hall and New York City, which is pictured at right.
Symbolism
Over his bed pictures of George Washington and John Calvin hang, much like the image of George Washington at left. These images represent traditional American values and his ordinary background. These symbols emphasize how anonymous he feels and his desire to become recognized, in his case through material wealth and culture.
theme
Most of society views materialism as the key to success. The picture at right illustrates the divine nature that many people think money possesses.
Citations
Hanes. Portrait People Sadness Man Stand Alone. Digital image. Pixabay.com. N.p., 11 Aug. 2012. Web. 8 Feb. 2013.
Nemo. Animals Cartoon Eagle Birds Bird Flying Eagles. Digital image. Pixabay.com. N.p., 03 Apr. 2012. Web. 8 Feb. 2013.
Nemo. Money Wings Eco. Digital image. Pixabay.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 8 Feb. 2013.
PublicDomainPictures. New York City Skyline Nights Lights River. Digital image. Pixabay.com. N.p., 17 Feb. 2012. Web. 8 Feb. 2013.
Washington Monument. Digital image. Baltimore.shownbypictures.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 8 Feb. 2013.