Native Son: Character Actions Defines Their Individual Personalities And Belief Systems

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stems from being caught in the act of doing something
socially unacceptable and being the subject of punishment. Although he
later admits to Max that Mary Dalton's behavior toward him made him hate
her, it is not that hate which causes him to smother her to death, but a
feeble attempt to evade the detection of her mother. The fear of being
caught with a white woman overwhelmed his common sense and dictated his
actions. When he attempted to murder Bessie, his motivation came from
intense fear of the consequences of "letting" her live. Bigger realized
that he could not take Bessie with him or leave her behind and concluded
that killing her could provide her only "merciful" end.

The emotional forces that drive Bigger are conveyed by means other than his
words. Besides reactions to fear, his actions demonstrate an extremely
quick temper and destructive impulse as an integral part of his nature.
Rage plays a key part in his basic nature, but does not directly motivate
the ...

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anti-hero character by condemning him to death for his crimes.

One of the two most sympathetic characterizations of white persons in the
novel comes from the character of Jan Erlone, Mary Dalton's friend. He
exhibits an enthusiastic personality and represents an idealistic young
organizer for the Communist party. Mary's parents and their servant Peggy
distrust his motives. Bigger initially expresses a distaste for "reds"
when responding to Jan's friendly advances during their first meeting.
While receiving distrust from those around him, Jan retains a simple belief
in the equality for all men, regardless of social class or race. Throughout
Jan's first meeting with Bigger, he regards ...

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