All The Pretty Horses Character Analysis

Words: 460
Pages: 2

Through theme, setting, and character development the reader views how the common man transforms into a hero despite all fatal flaws humans make in the novel All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy. Author, Cormac McCarthy, stresses that the importance of the common man hero through his utilization of theme. “But I think the way it is is the way it's goin’ to be” (154). Thus, providing the foundation to reinforce the idea that life is transient. Moreover, this is displayed through the journey that John Grady Cole has throughout the entirety of the novel; he endured many struggles that were life-altering and harmful emotionally and physically; even some that were that created the feeling of momento mori. Though struggles can disfigure a person’s …show more content…
John Grady Cole maintains his sense of confidence, determination, and an overall undeniable sense of leadership. However, McCarthy also paints John Grady as heroic through his thoughtful use of setting. Furthermore, it is no secret that in order to create a common man hero you have to use a common man atmosphere. During which the era the book was written, the author uses verbiage that lets the readers see John Grady as a common cowboy. Cole is depicted as “they camped at night of the headlands, (110)” and “coming out of the barn with his bare heels under a horse barrel” (129). John Grady Cole was treated as a normal yet have the incredible qualities of a hero gives the reader the sense that heroism can be found in the little things. John Grady also has experiences of loss and injustice: however some of the injustices he causes has purpose and is almost a necessary evil. Although setting is a very effective way to encompass the common man hero traits Grady has, the author also does a good job describing heroics through character development. “Your horse is gone. Iknow it. I done been out to the road once”