The Talented Mr. Ripley Group

Question:

horseshoe
horseshoe
Student
High School - 12th Grade

Why did Mr Ripley deceive others and himself about his identity?

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Posted by horseshoe on Friday August 21, 2009 at 7:44 PM and tagged with characters, ripley.

Answers:

  1. appletrees
    appletrees Teacher
    College - Junior

    eNotes Editor

    Ripley's main reason for deception stems from his wanting to live the life of someone other than himself. He is full of self-loathing and so mimics others to create a new persona so he can break free of his lowly upbringing. He is embarrassed by his lack of financial means and working class social status. He make an effort to get close to people of the upper class who represent culture, wealth, and social standing. Once he manages to ingratiate himself with such people, he learns how to imitate the way they dress and speak, their body language and gestures, so that he can assume their identities. 

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/talented-mr

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    Posted by appletrees on Friday August 21, 2009 at 9:10 PM