Ruth's Relationships and Emotional Journey

Ruth's relationships with Tommy and Kathy form a central part of the novel's emotional landscape. Her long-term relationship with Tommy significantly influences his character development.

Highlight: The complex dynamics between Ruth, Tommy, and Kathy drive much of the novel's emotional tension and character development.

Ruth's jealousy plays a crucial role in her interactions with Kathy and Tommy. Aware of the secret love between them, Ruth often behaves meanly towards Kathy, highlighting the emotional complexity of their friendship.

Quote: "Ruth is also jealous about the secret love between Tommy and Ruth, be cause of that feeling she is really mean to Kathy" (cf. P. 180 ll. 5-33).

As a donor, Ruth's moody character causes problems with many carers. However, when Kathy decides to care for Ruth, their relationship deepens, showcasing Ruth's capacity for emotional growth.

Vocabulary: Carer: In the context of the novel, a carer is someone who looks after donors, typically a former Hailsham student who hasn't yet begun the donation process.

In the later stages of the novel, Ruth attempts to make amends for her past actions, particularly for coming between Tommy and Kathy. This moment of vulnerability and remorse adds depth to Ruth's character, revealing her capacity for self-reflection and change.

Quote: "Ruth tries to apologize for tearing apart Tommy and Kathy" (cf. 233 ll. 9-12).

Ruth's Character Analysis in "Never Let Me Go"

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro introduces us to Ruth, a complex and influential character whose presence significantly shapes the narrative. Ruth is portrayed as a childhood friend of Kathy H. and Tommy, the other main characters, and her role as a donor ends tragically after her third donation.

Ruth's personality is characterized by her dominant and outspoken nature. She often takes on a leadership role within her group of friends, influencing their thoughts and actions. This aspect of her character is particularly evident in her impact on the secret love between Kathy and Tommy.

Highlight: Ruth's dominant personality is a key factor in the dynamics between the three main characters, often steering the course of their relationships and decisions.

The novel depicts Ruth as a moody and sometimes mean-spirited individual. Her natural leadership tendencies often manifest in attempts to convince others to align with her viewpoints, only relenting when consensus is achieved.

Example: Ruth's persuasive nature is demonstrated when she continues to argue her point until all other students agree with her perspective (cf. P. 42 l.1, P.42 ll. 10-17, P. 43 ll 21-26).

One of Ruth's notable traits is her propensity for fabrication. She often invents stories to elevate her status or appear more impressive than she actually is. When her lies are exposed, she reacts with moodiness and upset, revealing a more vulnerable side to her character.

Quote: "When her lies been discovered she acts again very moody and turns upset away" (cf. p. 69 ll. 7-9).

Ruth's Significance in "Never Let Me Go"

Ruth's character is integral to the novel's exploration of human relationships and the impact of predetermined fates. Her outspoken, jealous, and moody nature serves as a catalyst for many of the story's key events and emotional turning points.

As a natural leader, Ruth's ability to convince and influence others plays a crucial role in shaping the experiences and perceptions of the characters around her. Her complex personality and the evolution of her relationships with Kathy and Tommy mirror the broader themes of the novel.

Highlight: Ruth's character development throughout the novel reflects the broader themes of identity, friendship, and the struggle against an inevitable fate.

Ruth's importance in "Never Let Me Go" stems from her central role in the lives of the students at Hailsham, particularly in the intricate relationship between herself, Kathy, and Tommy. Her actions and decisions ripple through the narrative, influencing the paths of the other characters and contributing significantly to the emotional depth of the story.

Definition: Hailsham: The boarding school where Ruth, Kathy, and Tommy grow up, sheltered from the outside world and unaware of their true purpose as organ donors.

In conclusion, Ruth's character in "Never Let Me Go" is a complex portrayal of human nature, encompassing both flaws and redeeming qualities. Her journey from a manipulative and dominant figure to someone capable of remorse and self-reflection adds a powerful dimension to the novel's exploration of humanity in the face of a predetermined and tragic fate.