The Pearl, by John Steinbeck

What does the pearl invoke on the characters in the story?


Kino: Kino is well caring and wants to give his family a good future and have his son, Coyotito, to have a chance living out in the real world.

Juana: Juana thinks the pearl is evil when it can bring so much greed into their lives which never had greed before, living the life of a poor native.

Neighbors: Some neighbors just think that the pearl will turn Kino greedy and make him become evil and use it for selfish deeds. Some neighbors think he will share his wealth when he sells the pearl with them and continue living the way he is. They will talk about he was a fool if his future doesn't turn out how he wants it to when he makes the plans.

The Doctor: The Doctor is a man of greed who wants the pearl for himself probably going to try and steal it if Kino indicates where it is at all, turning himself entirely evil from greed.

The Priest: The priest is going to turn greedy after seeing the pearl, wanting to hold it in his hands, he will try and steal it from Kino.

The Townspeople: the townspeople can't really do anything but watch in awe and amazement at the size of the pearl, waiting for it to be sold for how much, joining in on the excitement.