The characters in The Pearl face numerous obstacles throughout the course of the novel's plot. Poverty is an underlying issue throughout the novel and is a key factor in the development of other obstacles, such as the inability to find a buyer for the pearl who will agree to purchase it for a price that will be adequate to provide for Juana and Kino's family. Other obstacles encountered by the characters include the problem of finding and obtaining medical treatment for Coyotito after he is stung by the scorpion, escaping the men who try to steal the pearl, and dealing with the townspeople and their prejudice.
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