In the reading about Araby, I would describe the main protagonist as a boy with a crush. From the detailed description of the surroundings, weather, building structure, etc., I initially got the impression this was an older teen-aged boy, maybe 17 – 19. After reading further, and noticing the almost “obsessive” crush on his friend’s sister (her name escapes me at the moment), I realized he was younger. I still don’t think he is a “young boy” – young to me would be between 7 – 12, with the times he is able to travel by himself or with peers, but perhaps early teen years, between 13 – 15. The voice of a typical, teenage boy, with a crush, trying to prove himself, find himself and get the attention and adoration of a young girl.
I also get the impression that he is used to doing things on his own to some degree, with the texts eluding to his uncle having a drinking problem, or coming home drunk fairly often; or even working, being busy or simply forgetting the boy. Due to his circumstances and home life, I feel this built a determined characteristic within him, with a hint of maturity to “always get things done”. He was informed most of the stalls would be closed, if not all, before he left the house to visit the bazaar, but still did his best to go.
I felt that towards the end of the reading, the boy’s disappointment and anger was mainly towards his uncle, not the lack of items available to purchase. He was looking forward to going for some time; so much so that he couldn’t concentrate on his studies or tasks. He gave reminders up until the day of, and still forgotten. I believe his actions of just requesting money to still go to the bazaar emphasized his sense of slight maturity. Instead of berating his uncle or expressing further emotions, he just picked up the pieces, so to speak, and continued with his goal.
In the text, it seems that he felt his efforts were made in vain or a waste of time, because what he was determined to go for – a gift for his crush – he was unable to get. What I did notice is, although he seems to be “head over heels” for this girl, he still is able to make sound decisions. He went to this bazaar, mainly to get the “something” he said he would for her, because she was unable to go. However, he didn’t buy just anything from the one stall that was open.
Although the boy’s final actions of not buying the vase or one of the items from the lasts of the open stalls can be seen simply as frustration, I also saw that as having pride in what he presented to her. He liked her, and wanted to bring her something thoughtful and not just the end trails of a closing bazaar.
If I had to sum it up, Araby is a young boy with a crush, as boys are, but wise beyond his years and determined.
