Zeitoun’s character was clear since the beginning of the novel. He was a man with strong values and a man that nothing seemed impossible for him. What was not clear to us, the reader, was if he was ready for the challenges that he had to face. He reached a really low point in his life when he was put in jail unfairly, and had no contact with his family. For all they knew he could have been dead. This really got to me. It must be a horrible feeling not being able to be with your family at times like that, it must be even worse not knowing if they are a life or not. Even if Zeitoun was cornered down in this situation, you get a sense that he still has not given up hope, you really get the vibe of his strong personality even if it seems like he is doomed. To his luck, a missionary came to his cell and said he would call Kathy. I thought Dave Eggers ended that chapter with a strong manner, “There was a man in the world who knew he was alive. He had found his messenger” (Eggers 267).
I agree with you. Eggers really did a great job exemplifying a truly strong character in the novel. I like that the novel ended with him being able to come out of the jail because it kind of goes along with the belief that good things happen to good people. Here was a man that tried everything in his power to protect his home and family, and even with all the odds against him, he was able to survive strong.
ReplyDeleteI was drawn to the character of Zeitoun because he is smart and motivated by a desire to provide for his family. He is also an individual who works hard to get what he wants, a trait I most admire. I am also happy with the way the novel ended because this was a good man who was wronged and had to overcame many obstacles just to see his family as a result. Even if Eggers had added to the ending, it would not have been as powerful.
ReplyDeleteI agree Zeitoun was a strong character, however, any of us would do the same - fight to the last moment. This is natural for any living creatures to fight for their life and survive. Zeitoun survive physically, however, he was extremely hurt psychologically. The stress he must have been through was unimaginable. I also agree that probably the worst thing for Kathy was not knowing where Zeitoun is. Despite knowing either good or bad news about her husband, Kathy would have to cope with it, but not knowing what is going on must drive one crazy.
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