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   angelcann Teacher
   College - Sophomore

   eNotes Editor

   This is an interesting question!  Paul's suicide does seem a bit heavy-handed, but it is very much in Paul's character. Think about his interactions with the faculty at his school. He is flamboyant and unconventional, and his confidence makes the teachers feel uncomfortable. He also demonstrates the attitude that he has nothing to learn from them -- and his refusal to learn from his actions is part of his choice to commit suicide.

   Paul is also drawn to the theatre -- not as an actor, but he is certainly drawn to the performing arts. He also appreciates art and is drawn to the idea of life as art. His idea to commit suicide is a conscious decision to turn his life into something artistic and dramatic, even beautiful when compared to the life he believes is a lie.

   Sources:

   http://www.enotes.com/pauls-case/characters

   http://www.enotes.com/pauls-case/themes

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   Posted by angelcann on Wednesday October 28, 2009 at 11:23 PM