Pearl John Steinbeck
I have been set the task of evaluating The Pearl, by John Steinbeck. ... The story is a simple tale about Kino, an Indian pearl diver. In the beginning Kino lives a simple life, but the story tells about how his discovery of the most magnificent pearl in the world shatters his happiness. ... After finding a few small oysters he notices a large oyster which has a large pearl inside. "There it lay, the great pearl, perfect as the moon. ... That night someone enters the family home searching for the great pearl. ... Juanna realises the pearl is causing evil things to happen. Next day Kino dresses in his best clothes to go into town and attempt to sell his pearl "Thus, in La Paz, it was known on the early morning through the whole town that Kino was going to sell his pearl that day" Kino refuses to sell the pearl to the pearl buyers as he feels he is being cheated and says he will go to the capital. When Kino is attacked again his wife takes matters into her own hands and digs up the pearl to throw back into the sea. ... Here it becomes obvious the pearl is changing Kino. ... He, Juana and Coyotito move through the desert being closely followed by trackers seeking the pearl. ... Kino and Juanna return home to bury the baby and chuck the pearl back into the sea as it has no value to them now. ... After finding the pearl Kino suffers continuous hazards which leave him afraid. "He was glancing about suspiciously, for the evil song was in his ears, shrilling against the music of the pearl" This shows that the pearl is already beginning to change Kino because he suspects his neighbours and family of causing the evil song. The pearl makes Kino unprepared for the jealousy he faces. Juana is Kinos faithful wife, she shows strong character when she deals with her sons injury and also when Kino tries to escape with the pearl to the capital.