The Pearl Symbolism

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In The Pearl, there are many symbolisms that are important to the theme. The pearl that Kino catches is a symbol of many things. The pearl’s symbolism changes throughout the book. In the beginning, the pearl is a sign of hope and the chance to change Kino and his family’s lives. However, as the story evolves, the pearl becomes deadly. The pearl is the surface of greed and evil impulses that everyone experiences. However, many people have different ideas on what the pearl could mean for them, thus creating multiple reactions.The pearl represents a better life, but can also represent greed and selfishness.

The pearl evokes multiple reactions from a variety of people; Kino sees it as a blessing and an opportunity to change his life. In the …show more content…

“All manner of people grew interested in Kino-- people with things to sell and people with favors to ask.” When the villagers learn of Kino’s pearl, everyone wants to have it. However, when they know Kino will not give it up, jealousy and hatred bubble under the surface. Juana and Kino are blind to this and believe that the villagers are happy for them. The priest tried to recall if he ever did anything for Kino’s family. He doesn’t think of how the money could help Kino’s family instead he lets his mind wander to what the pearl could do for the church. The priest wants to create the finest church. The shopkeepers found out about the pearl and thought about all the clothes that had not been bought yet. Beggars on the streets know that no one gives as much as a poor man that discovered wealth and become excited. However, the most selfish is the doctor. Before the pearl, the doctor had been rude and arrogant towards Kino’s family and refused to treat Coyotito’s injury. As soon as Kino found the pearl, the doctor was willing to treat them and treated them respectfully. He imagined himself in Paris drinking expensive wine with a woman that he had loved. The doctor treats Coyotito so that he is payed not so that the baby heals. The pearls shows us that everyone has selfishness and greed inside of them. Everyone has the greedy

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