Integrity in Characters of Different Literary Works

Integrity

Integrity is the basing of one's actions on an internally consistent framework of principles. Meaning, one who has integrity bases their actions on a moral code of honor, character, strength, and courage. These principles guide a character’s motive and cause, putting public image aside to lead a life chivalry and conviction. One example this is Willie Bodega of Bodega Dreams by Ernesto Quiñonez. Although Willie’s means are shady, he strives for the betterment of Spanish Harlem through the improvement of abandoned and damaged apartments. Next, there is John Proctor of The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Proctor refuses to provide a false confession is a true religious and personal stand. By refusing to give up his personal integrity Proctor proclaims his conviction that such integrity will bring him to heaven. Lastly, there is Holden Caulfield of Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. However, Holden displays the intrinsic converse of integrity by embodying a hypocrite. Willie Bodega and John Proctor embody the principles of integrity and let it shine through their actions. However, Holden Caulfield shows his deceit and impiety through his consistent dishonesty and hypocrisy.

First, there is Willie Bodega is known all around Spanish Harlem for getting someone that job, or getting them settled into an apartment for a cheap rent. He knows that since he became successful in the neighborhood he grew up in, he needs to give back to it. Willie does this by renovating dilapidated apartments into to decent homes for good people. Although these renovations are funded by shady drug deals, Willie is doing it truly for the betterment of Spanish Harlem. In this, Willie’s integrity truly shines among his actions. Another example of this...

... middle of paper ...

...e. Spencer attempted to discuss the paper Holden wrote for him and causes for Holden's expulsion. However, Holden does not respect what Mr. Spencer had to say. In fact he does not even listen. To show the amount of disrespect as to completely ignore those who are truly trying to help you defines Holden as a deceitful hypocrite.

Ernesto Quiñonez and Arthur Miller brilliantly craft characters that despite personal imperfections let their integrity shine through their actions. Willie Bodega and John Proctor embody the principles of integrity and display it through their actions through their actions that were for the betterment of their communities. However, J.D. Salinger also meticulously produces an imperfect person who through his endeavors slips into mental instability. Holden Caulfield shows his deceit and impiety through his consistent dishonesty and hypocrisy.