Protagonists and Their Roles

Paper Summary:

This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the novels "Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, "Emma" by Jane Austen, and "My Name is Asher Lev" by Chaim Potok. Specifically it examines the role of the protagonist in these three novels and how each of them grows and develops in some way during these novels. The paper concludes that these novels are novels about coming of age or transformations, as they all concentrate on the growth and increasing awareness of the characters to their surroundings and their own maturity and self-awareness, as the evidence shows.

From the Paper:

"Emma's growth is similar to Huck's in that she matures and learns to question certain aspects of society. However, her circumstances are far different from Huck's. She is wealthy and pampered, and a bit selfish and self-centered at the beginning of the novel. In comparison, Huck has never had it easy, and he continues to struggle throughout the novel, actively seeking a place for himself and his friend. He is also a loveable character, even if he is mischievous and impish, while there are times when Emma is decidedly unlovable and not open to learning about herself throughout much of the novel, because she is too busy meddling in other's affairs. Inside, she is a good person, just as Huck is, and so the reader hopes she will learn from her mistakes and find love."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Austen, J. (1998). Emma (J. Kinsley, Ed.). Oxford: Oxford University Press.
• Potok, C. (1972). My name is Asher Lev. New York: Fawcett Columbine.
• Twain, M. (1918). The adventures of Huckleberry Finn. New York: P. F. Collier & Son.

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