Questions to consider
- Why did George come back?
- How do the other characters attempt to pacify him?
- Who is George representing?
- What are his views?
He starts for the driveway, but is brought up short by George, who enters there. George is Chris's age, but a paler man, now on the edge of his self-restraint. He speaks quietly, as though afraid to find himself screaming. An instant's hesitation and Chris steps up to him, hand extended.
Reasons for returning:
1) Making amends for not contacting Steve
- We did a terrible thing (to Ann)
- Emergence of guilty conscience (Consider: does this emerge for other characters?)
- Atonement; righting wrongs
2) Seek justice for Steve
- Donning Steve's hat as a physical representation of his missing father; donning his values.
- Look like a lawyer
- Deals with issue of right and wrong; returns to have justice served
(consider: what does he understand about justice?)
3) Saving Ann
- But she's one item he's not going to grab
- You're coming with me (x2)
- Prevent one more loved one from being tainted by the Kellers
4) Intentions are directed towards removing Steve's guilt than blaming Joe for what has happened
- Did not tell the neighbours about how he felt
- Did not incarcerate Kellers
5) His intentions are larger than revenge
- Returned to cut ties with Kellers (ties=Ann)
- Prevent history from reoccuring (you shouldn't try to do it twice)
The trees got thick, didn't they?
- Suggests that Joe is hiding something and that George is (vaguely) aware of it.
Chris: George, you don't want to be the voice of God, do you?
- God: Higher moral authority, has the final say
- Mocking George about being a higher moral authority
- By letting George be "God", it gives him the power to judge, which Chris disallows, as Joe's good name would be ruined.
- Chris cannot let George have the 'final say' as doesn't want Ann to be convinced to leave with her brother.
Things to which George is susceptible to
1) Gives in to Mother's charm/sentiment/nostalgia
- Georgie - a form of endearment
- None of us changed, Georgie. We all love you. - Irony: They still do not repent.
- Kate's appeal to old friendships
- Grape juice - Food that accompanies festivity (to lighten up spirit and mood of characters)
2) Acknowledges Steve's weaknesses (frightened mouse, little man)
- Both George and Ann are candid and fully acceptable of Steve's shortcomings
3) Joe's warm welcome
- Offers Steve a job when he leaves jail
The sense of familiarity and relaxation eased George's agitation.
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