Philip Roth

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Student Question

In Goodbye, Columbus, does Roth satirize the boy who visits the library? How?

Quick answer:

Philip Roth does not satirize the young boy who visits the library; instead, he is portrayed sympathetically. The boy's love for reading highlights his innocence and curiosity, contrasting with other characters' materialism and social climbing. Neil Klugman, the narrator, admires the boy's passion for knowledge. This depiction contrasts with characters like Brenda, who are more concerned with social status and possessions, underscoring Roth's critique of materialism.

Expert Answers

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Philip Roth's book Goodbye, Columbus does employ satire, often aimed at the Jewish characters, their values, and their social aspirations. However, Roth does not satirize the little "colored" boy who visits the library in the book.

On the contrary, the character of the little boy, Neil Klugman's interactions with him, and his love of reading are presented sympathetically. Roth portrays the little boy as an innocent and curious child who loves books and has an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Neil Klugman, the narrator of the story, admires the boy's passion for learning and enjoys spending time with him in the library.

In fact, the little boy's love of reading serves as a sharp contrast to the materialism and social climbing of some of the other characters in the book. Neil's girlfriend, Brenda, for example, is presented as a shallow and materialistic character who values her social status and her possessions more than anything else.

In conclusion, Roth does not satirize the little "colored" boy who visits the library in Goodbye Columbus. Rather, the character is presented sympathetically and serves as a contrast to the Jewish characters in the book.

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