Joseph: A Complex Character in "The Wall"

Joseph, the main character in "The Wall," is a multifaceted 18-year-old defender who challenges societal norms and grapples with deep philosophical questions. His character is defined by his introspective nature, strained family relationships, and unique perspective on the world around him.

Highlight: Joseph's role as a defender, a lower class member in the novel's society, shapes his worldview and experiences.

Joseph's physical appearance is described as slim with glasses, suggesting a more intellectual than physical presence. His two weeks of training prior to the story's events hint at the rigorous preparation required for his role as a defender.

Quote: "God tells us.... which works for some." (p. 35)

This quote reveals Joseph's skeptical attitude towards religion, indicating his tendency to question established beliefs and seek his own understanding of the world.

Quote: "How dare we make more humans to come into this world" (p.35)

Joseph's contemplation of human reproduction in a challenging world demonstrates his deep thinking about ethics and the future of humanity.

Quote: "Why are we here?" (p.36)

This existential question epitomizes Joseph's pensive nature and his constant quest for meaning in a seemingly purposeless world.

Joseph's observant nature is evident in his analysis of others' appearances, as shown in the quote: "at a grumpy-looking..... thirty minutes." This trait suggests his keen awareness of his surroundings and the people in it.

The relationship between Joseph and his parents is complex and strained:

1. Joseph's father:

   • Displays emotional reflexes
   • Desires to be in charge and know better
   • Often starts sentences with "When I was..."
   • Had been a good father until Joseph became a teenager
   • Works in an office during the day and comes home in the evening to eat (p.58)

2. Joseph's mother:

   • Manages the household and feeds three adults (p.57)
   • Acts like "the bravest, keenest, most willing slave in the salt mine" (p.57)

Highlight: The family's communication is poor, as evidenced by Joseph's statement, "None of us can talk to our parents" (p.55).

The lack of deep connection within the family is further emphasized by Joseph's observation: "We don't talk much and both prefer it that way" (p.58). However, there are glimpses of affection, as seen in the "shy hug from my mother, and a handshake from my dad" (p. 60), suggesting a slightly better relationship with his mother than his father.

Quote: "My parents...."

This unfinished quote implies that Joseph's parents show little interest in their child, further highlighting the emotional distance within the family.

The deterioration of Joseph's relationship with his father is particularly noted: "he'd have been a good father. But it....." (p. 57), indicating that their connection worsened as Joseph entered his teenage years.

In conclusion, Joseph's character in "The Wall" serves as a lens through which readers can explore themes of isolation, family dynamics, and the search for meaning in a challenging world. His introspective nature and strained relationships provide a rich backdrop for the novel's exploration of human nature and societal structures.

Vocabulary: Defender - In the context of "The Wall," a defender appears to be a lower-class member of society with specific duties or roles, possibly related to protection or maintenance of the societal structure.