the happy short story of francis macomber
...ay’s story is so compelling as it has universal themes woven into such a dark and original tale. In it he displays an eye for the foibles of humanity- Macomber’s display of cowardice and Margot’s intolerance for her husband and her retaliatory love affair. Macomber is penalized for his foibles – his somewhat cowardly behaviour. Still, what constitutes cowardice begs questions, as it was a circumstance in which he acted out of a survival instinct. On retrospect, I do not find Macomber’s behaviour in the forest appalling as it is only humane to place life before pride when he knows very well that he dares not take on the lion. Therefore it is more appropriate to say that his cowardice is not physically, but mainly mentally. He lacks self-esteem and belief in his own self, which leads to people stepping all over him, like his wife does. I believe Hemingway wants Macomber’s death to be seen as a triumph as much as it is a tragedy too. Essentially, Macomber died in the act of affirming himself, and in that last few moments of his life, he has stood up to his wife. He has regained his happiness, contentment, self-control and bravery and put his insecurities and shortcomings behind him. Hemingway’s portrayal of him is lined with sympathy, which in doing so he has revealed the anxiety and tragedy that such narrow definitions of manhood can produce. This code of manhood acts as a backdrop in the story and the juxtaposition of Macomber and his nemesis, Wilson, clearly underscores this. Francis is portrayed as a cowardly fearful man, as opposed to the manly and brave Wilson. Yet where the theme of the story is concerned- staring into the face of danger or plainly standing up for oneself, Francis faces a bigger challe...