A retrieved reformation characters. A Retrieved Reformation Summary and Detailed Analysis 2022-10-07
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"A Retrieved Reformation" is a short story written by O. Henry, first published in 1910. The story follows the character of Jimmy Valentine, a former safe-cracker and thief who has recently been released from prison. Upon his release, Jimmy decides to turn over a new leaf and become a legitimate citizen.
One of the key themes in "A Retrieved Reformation" is the idea of redemption and second chances. Jimmy's decision to reform and start anew is a sign of his desire to make amends for his past mistakes and become a better person. This theme is further emphasized by the fact that Jimmy's transformation is facilitated by his love for a young woman named Annabel Adams. Annabel serves as a positive influence on Jimmy, encouraging him to pursue a more honest and upright path in life.
Another important character in the story is Elmore Leonidas, who is the warden of the prison where Jimmy was held. Leonidas is a strict and uncompromising figure, but he is also fair and just. He recognizes Jimmy's potential for reform and gives him a chance to start anew, even going so far as to provide him with a new identity and a job as a bank clerk.
Finally, the character of Ben Price serves as a foil to Jimmy, highlighting the contrast between Jimmy's former life as a thief and his new identity as a reformed individual. Price is a detective who is determined to catch Jimmy, believing him to be the same thief who had evaded capture years earlier. However, despite his efforts, Price is unable to recognize Jimmy in his new guise, and ultimately fails to bring him to justice.
Overall, "A Retrieved Reformation" is a poignant and thought-provoking story that explores the themes of redemption and second chances. It offers a compelling portrayal of the transformative power of love and the possibility of overcoming one's past mistakes to become a better person.
A Retrieved Reformation Study Guide
Agatha, almost collapsed, but safe, was gathered into her mother's arms. There exists a stark contrast between all identities. The old banker sprang to the handle and tugged at it for a moment. That would be the first time he had left town since he came to Elmore. His chance encounter with Annabelle makes him forget about his identity as a thief. He is very much loved by the people and his business is pretty successful. His expertise is evident when he steals from multiple banks in just a few weeks, without getting caught.
He knows from the beginning that his friends will help buy his way out. This indicates that he is well informed regarding the subject. Three hours set him down in a little town near the state line. I wouldn't touch a dollar of another man's money now for a million. Henry is establishing Ben Price as Jimmy's nemesis and a worthy antagonist.
Annabel Adams Character Analysis in A Retrieved Reformation
Jimmy completely transforms into another man, changing his felonious schemes. Spencer and once again becomes Jimmy Valentine. In the end, he is completely reformed. The tools could be matched up against the drilling done on the safes and provide irrefutable evidence. Use text evidence to support your answer. While in prison, he is referred to as prisoner 9762, who is completely at odds with the outside Jimmy.
Agatha, almost collapsed, but safe, was gathered into her mother's arms. It is clear that Jimmy abides by his own moral code. Ben pursues Jimmy for a year. It is only when he saves Agatha and sacrifices his identity, he finally redeems himself for his past mistakes. Instead of helping him become decent and respectable, the prison takes advantage of him. An interesting thing in the story is how Jimmy does not have any motivation to change when he leaves prison. He lets Jimmy walk free although, in doing so, he breaks the law.
Who are the main characters in A Retrieved Reformation?
He is convicted for opening a safe in Springfield. It's the only life, Billy--the straight one. Socially he was also a success, and made many friends. Spencer thought he would stop over in the town a few days and look over the situation. James Valentine walked out into the sunshine.
Is there any direct characterization in "A Retrieved Reformation"?
She lowered her eyes and coloured slightly. He had thought of the shoe business. However, he is only "somewhat in his way" and not actually blocking his way. He instantly falls in love with her. Adams, Annabel, Jimmy, and Annabel's married sister with her two little girls, aged five and nine.
Warden The prison warden lectures Jimmy before Jimmy's release. What would it take to get you to completely turn your life around? All it takes is one look in her eyes for him to want to surrender his identity as a safecracker and start life anew as a better man. He dresses in ''tasteful'' clothing, and takes care with his style and appearance. Spenser, a shoe shop owner. Jimmy Valentine is the protagonist and Ben Price is the antagonist of the story. I don't know that it makes much difference, now.
