Joseph Kavanagh: A Defender's Profile
Joseph Kavanagh, the protagonist of "The Wall," is a complex character shaped by his circumstances and aspirations. At 18 years old, Kavanagh embarks on his mandatory service as a defender on the Wall, tasked with preventing "Others" – climate refugees – from entering the country.
Physical Appearance:
Kavanagh is described as having a skinny build and wearing glasses. He's notably shorter than the Captain, emphasizing his youth and relative inexperience.
Background and Aspirations:
Originally from the Midlands, Kavanagh comes from a lower-class background. His primary goals revolve around leaving home, pursuing education, and ultimately joining the elite through a well-paid job. These ambitions reflect a desire for social mobility in a stratified society.
Definition: Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups between different socio-economic positions within a society.
Personality and Behavior:
Kavanagh is characterized by his introspective nature. He's often skeptical about his time on the Wall, viewing it more as a duty to be endured than embraced. His tendency to overthink and worry about potential scenarios reveals a cautious and perhaps anxious personality.
Example: Kavanagh's attempt to use math to cheer himself up demonstrates his effort to maintain optimism in challenging circumstances.
Emotional Landscape:
The novel portrays Kavanagh grappling with feelings of desperation and depression. His willingness to cry for emotional relief suggests a level of emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Despite these struggles, he shows resilience by actively trying to maintain a positive outlook.
Relationships:
Kavanagh forms a new "Wall family" with his fellow defenders, indicating his ability to adapt and form bonds in difficult situations. His relationship with his parents is described as complicated, partly due to generational differences and the blame he places on their generation for current global issues.
Quote: "Parents' generations 'fueled up the world'" - This sentiment reflects the intergenerational tension and blame present in the story's world.
Intellectual Traits:
Kavanagh is portrayed as intelligent and organized, as evidenced by his tidy living space and strategic thinking. His interest in Hifa, another character, suggests a capacity for emotional connection despite the harsh environment.
Overall, Joseph Kavanagh emerges as a thoughtful, complex protagonist navigating the physical and emotional challenges of his role as a defender, while harboring hopes for a better future.