A Worn Path Group

Topic: Help with Analysis of Phoenix Jackson in "A Worn Path"

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1

beatriz07

In the story "A Worn Path" how would I describe the personality of Phoenix Jackson and what aspects of the story can support my essay?

2

Phoenix Jackson is a caring, devoted, determined grandmother who will do whatever it takes, including putting her life in danger, to get the medicine her grandson needs. She is also brave and knows how to take advantage of situations she is in.  For example, she picks up a nickel after the hunter is distracted by one of his dogs in the forest.  She also knows how to play "dumb" at times and will resort to doing so to get what she wants (at the doctor's office, for example).  She is a very savvy woman who is absolutely resolute when it comes to her mission.

3

mshurn

In reply to #1:

Phoenix Jackson is a lady. She has pride and dignity. When she arrives in town after her arduous journey, she stops a woman on the street and asks her to tie her shoes. Phoenix can't do this simple task herself because of her age. Phoenix says, "Do all right for out in the country, but wouldn't look right to go in a big building."

Phoenix is completely self-sacrificing. When she steals the hunter's nickel, she says to herself, "God watching me the whole time. I come to stealing. Later, in town, the nurse asks if she could give Phoenix a few pennies. Phoenix says, "Five pennies is a nickel." This is as close to begging as Phoenix most likely has ever come, but she needs another nickel to add to the one she has stolen so that she can buy a toy for her grandson.

There is nothing Phoenix will not do for the boy she loves. She even endures insult and humiliation when the attendant in the office hatefully calls her a "charity case" and tells her to "Speak up, Grandma." Phoenix endures this disrespect because she has to in order to complete her mission, but "a twitch to her face" suggests it isn't easy for her.

 

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