Symbolism of the Pearl in The Pearl by John Steinbeck

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Symbolism of the Pearl in The Pearl by John Steinbeck

In The Pearl, by John Steinbeck, evil transforms certain humble citizens into envious savages. It is this evil which moves the story along and adds drama. It causes the beginning of a happy spirit, but the downfall of goodness and humanity.

Evil is shown by the doctor many times during the story. At first, he refuses to treat Coyotito because his parents have no money. When the doctor heard of Kino and Juana's fortune in finding "the pearl of the world", the doctor boasts that they were patients of his while thinking of a better life for himself in Paris. This greed and lust cause him to plot ways to gain wealth. Coyotito is healed by the time the doctor comes to Kino's straw hut. He deceives Kino by giving the baby a white powder that makes the infant go into convulsions. The doctor achieves this effect when he tells Kino that the infant is going through a stage of the poison, but not healing. Through this furtive manner the doctor intends on gaining great opulence. With his new wealth he intends to move to a large man...

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