For this essay we will do things a little differently. You are going to write about a character of your choice. Your three paragraphs should explain why you chose the character (you can discuss their humanity in this part), their role in the plot, and their struggle and victory. Of course in the intro you set up the above, and in the conclusion you wrap it all up. So in the end it is a five paragraph essay. Have fun with this and please ask for help along the way!
Above is a picture of a church in Kenya. I think it is probably similar to the one described in the book.
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John Kumalo
Although John Kumalo professed to be happy where he was and what he did for a living, he had yet to find a true happiness, happiness that only comes from God. Though John used to be a believer he renounced Christ and said he no longer had any use for him, saying “what God has not done for South Africa, man must do.” John Kumalo led a very good life by the world’s standards. He previously was a carpenter, recently turned politician, whom everyone had said that he wielded great power through his words. He was often compared to a growling lion, whose words held great power, power enough to even start a revolution they said. Even with all this power, he was afraid of it. Just when he had the crowd where he wanted them, he would hold back, fearful of that power, what authorities might do to him.
John Kumalo’s part in this story begins when his brother Stephen Kumalo, comes to Johannesburg to search for his missing son and sister. John worked in that city, and the reason Stephen had come was because none of his family members that were there wrote them, at all. When Stephen comes to inquire of his son, John tells him that Absalom and John’s own son hung out together and he saw them every once in a while. So as Stephen goes to search for both his son and his sister, Gertrude, John continues his life as usual.
When Stephen finally finds his son, he is shocked that he has not only been involved in criminal activities, but just not a day before, had killed a man who had been working to relive pressure of the natives. On top of this, John’s son was found to be with him at the time of the crime. Since Absalom admitted that it was he that had killed the man, John found a way for his son not to be accused, and pleaded not guilty, saying that his nephew and was lying. Even though that crime is punishable by death, it seemed as though John and his son had no conscience. It’s not only Matthew was completely lying as was his father, but you would think that if its family, you might help. But not only do they not help him, they condemn him and say ‘he’s not our problem.’
In the end Absalom Kumalo was found guilty of manslaughter and murder, but his cousin was released on probation. John Kumalo seemed unaffected by Absalom’s death sentence, and Stephen Kumalo who was extremely sad but once more tried to turn John to Christ but ended up wanting to hurt him, scare him, and make him feel terrible, which he did and John kicked him out onto the street. So in the end he rejected Salvation, and still was unaffected by what Christ had done for him.
The reason I chose this character is because you and I can see him almost everywhere we look. He symbolizes the unbeliever who doesn’t want change, doesn’t want hardship, and definitely doesn’t want restrictions. The reason John rejected Salvation was because he enjoyed living how he liked to live. He didn’t want rules or regulations. John’s part is just one other small tragedy in this book.
Daniel Malouf
Mrs. Severson
English
April 11, 2008
The Great Optimist
Losing loved ones is never easy. James Jarvis lived a peaceful life managing his farm in Ndotsheni when the local police informed him of the murder of his son Arthur. From that moment on, James Jarvis carried himself with confidence and determination in spite of his grief. His role in the plot is important because he emerged as a strong character, willing to do what was right. Throughout the story, his resolve was never broken. As he read Arthur’s writing’s, he discovered Arthur’s passion had been the desire for social equality for the natives in South Africa. Although James had always lived by the principle of human equality, he never actively pursed meaningful action. Due to his son’s influence, James opened his mind and decided to be an advocate for good. The additional death of his wife did not bring him to his knees, but made him more intent on carrying on his mission of aiding the town of Ndotsheni. By helping the town he gave them hope for a better future. For those reasons James Jarvis was my choice. At any given time, he could have hid in a depressed stupor not wanting to face reality, yet he came out of his comfort zone and blessed those around him. Throughout the entire story, he was continually plagued with struggles, yet refused to get down, and emerged victorious. James Jarvis serves as an example of what it means to have a strong character.
I chose James Jarvis because of his steadfast courage and determination. His character remained strong and never wavered. After Arthur’s death, Mr. Jarvis read his articles and papers in which he argued against the social inequality the natives were experiencing in South Africa. These articles made him see the plight of the natives in a different light. His views soon changed and he decided to dedicate himself to helping the town of Ndotsheni. To me this is very inspiring. He was open to new ideas and more importantly to act upon his new found passion. Although he did not become a political reformer like his son, he helped the town of Ndotsheni with their agricultural problems. Instead of being the bitter, and revengeful old man he could have been, he chose to be generous, loving and compassionate. While facing the death of his son and wife, his courage and determination became evident. In the midst of his suffering he chose to bless others. He was capable of these things because of his courage and new found desire to help others not as materially fortunate as himself.
James Jarvis is the father of Arthur Jarvis. The parson Steven Kumalo is his neighbor, ironically Kumalo’s son Absalom murdered Arthur. In the beginning of Cry the Beloved Country, James lived a simple life of farming with no concerns of the outside world. His life dramatically changed when his son was murdered in Johannesburg. He and his wife quickly left for Johannesburg where they stayed with some relatives by the name of Harrison. During his stay, he learned his son had been a political reformer. He began to read his son’s articles and speeches which conveyed his thoughts on South Africa’s social injustice. As he read, his ideas began to change. He soon thought as his son had. Even though James did not go into a political career, he decided to help Ndotsheni instead. After leaving John Harrison (a friend of his son) with a check for one thousand pounds, he returned to his ranch. Soon after donating milk to Ndotsheni, he initiated the beginning of a new dam. This dam would aid the people in irrigating there fields and therefore produce more crops. He then went a step further and hired an agricultural expert named Mr. Letsitsi to oversee the farming. His expertise was put to work teaching the farmers more efficient methods of farming. After a few months, James’s wife passed away. Before her death, his wife had wished he build Ndotsheni a new Church. This he also did. Arthur’s desire to help the natives was ironically carried on by his father. The reason it is ironic is because usually the son carries on the work of his father. Through all the pain James experienced, he still managed to bless those around him throughout the entire story.
In the beginning of the book, James Jarvis stood on the mountain thinking about the need for rain. It had not rained for many months and without rainwater, his crops could not grow, and in turn his livelihood destroyed. When news arrived that his son Arthur had been murdered, this concern quickly became the least of his worries. His next great struggle came when his frail wife would die and pass out of his life. In such a short time, both his only son, and wife were gone. It appears James never struggled with emotions of revenge, or hatred toward his son’s killer. As it turned out, the father of the killer was his neighbor, Steven Kumalo, the priest of the local Church. James never treated Steven Kumalo with disrespect or spite. In his reactions to the negative situation around him, James was victorious. He chose to be positive and loving instead of pessimistic and hateful.
Because of his virtuous character and desire to do right, Mr. Jarvis became an advocate for good. His strong character helped him to resist emotions of hate and malice against his neighbor. He overcame his struggles and emerged victorious. In the midst of his pain at losing his wife and son, he blessed the town of Ndotsheni. Even though James was not an outgoing person, he was never disrespectful or rude to those he interacted with. Throughout the entire plot he was a blessing and true friend. He never spoke negatively behind their backs or slighted them. He remained steadfast to his family, friends, and to the town of Ndotsheni. With no immediate family left, James dedicated himself to help Ndotsheni become the best it could be. Ndotsheni had hope because James Jarvis was on their side. Because of James’s determination and courage, Ndotsheni could now put their sights on prosperity and happiness.
Kevin Doody
Lit/Composition
Mrs. Severson
4/11/08
The Humble Pillar
“The humble man reached into his pocket for his sacred book and began to read. It was this world alone that was certain” (Paton 44). Kumalo, the main character in the novel Cry The Beloved Country, is an excellent example as someone who follows God into whatever situation he is put. Kumalo’s role in this plot was not without struggle, hardship, and heartbreak. However, with God’s help, Kumalo remained steadfast through these many struggles and emerged victorious.
Throughout the novel, Kumalo demonstrated the essence of unconditional love, humility, and sacrifice in the midst of his struggles. He was a man of incredible faith who strove to uphold his beliefs in whatever circumstance he was faced. He entered every situation with prayer and confidence that God was going to help him through no matter what the outcome. Because of this, Kumalo impacted a small portion of the tumultuous city of Johannesburg. His loving example drew others toward him and caused him to be respected in a new community. Kumalo inspires the reader to give of himself for the benefit of others and for the glory of God.
The role that Kumalo played was one of sacrifice and incredible faith. Sacrificing the little money he had, he gave and spent it in a way that would only benefit others. When he was called to assist his sister in the heavily populated city of Johannesburg, he thanked God for this opportunity and resolved to search for his son while there. Using the last of their funds, which would have purchased a much-needed stove, he departed to the unknown city of Johannesburg, leaving his comfortable tribal community. Despite his old age, he began his journey with a peace knowing that it was God’s will. When his faith was shaken by the news of his son’s involvement in a murder, his friends came beside him to pray and support him. Kumalo rose from this place of despair and began his role as loving father, brother, and friend once more. Gertrude was greatly influenced when she saw Kumalo’s unquenchable faith and finally felt a sense of hope. Kumalo’s unconditional love had inspired her to start a new and changed life. Although Kumalo’s path was difficult at times, it was not without an eternal reward.
Kumalo’s character was seemingly flawless, however he was not without fault. He would occasionally explode in anger and tell lies. “His voice rose into loud and angry words. Go up and ask the white man, he said” (Paton 39). But through his steady relationship with God, he always repented when he had spoken out of anger. “He rose heavily to his feet, and went and stood before her. I am sorry I hurt you, he said. I shall go pray in the church” (Paton 40). When Kumalo finally returned to his village, he was uncertain whether or not he would be accepted once again because of his son’s actions. When a priest advised him to leave his village, Kumalo was humble and prayerfully considered leaving. But through this uncertainty and confusion, hope arose. The relationship between Kumalo and Jarvis continued as Kumalo returned to his tribe. This friendship only grew stronger as the two men who had lost their sons encouraged and strengthened each other. Through Kumalo’s struggles, God brought victory.
When Kumalo’s work in Johannesburg was competed, he returned home. He had influenced his friends and relatives to begin new and changed lives. He came back with greater faith and a resolve to make a difference in the lives of his fellow parishioners and lead them into a more fulfilled life. God had brought restoration to Kumalo, his family, and his friends. Through his struggles God had brought an unseen blessing. Jarvis’ eyes were open to the plight of Kumalo and his people. Kumalo had been successful in bringing his world of peace, hope, and certainty into the lives of many individuals.
tyler-
good job on this essay. i wrote on john kumalo as well, and it was interesting to see your view on him.
i liked your closing paragraph. you did a good job tying john's roll in the book to our everyday lives.
Kevin-
Awesome job. I really like your use of quotes from the book. You placed them in such a way that conveyed your point in a clear and efficient way. Another aspect in which your essay merits recognition is your interpretation of Steven Kumalo. You recognized his dependancy upon God for courage and hope. If he had relied solely upon on his weak body, he trip might have ended as an unsuccessful nightmare. Thirdly, you expanded upon the blessings which resulted from his struggles. Great job.
daniel-
Great job! i like how you put how he never struggled with revenge or hatred. nice begining and great ending. YAY
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