A Worn Path

The Journey of a Hero

Often times a writer will use characterization in the development of their story; this is the case in Eudora Welty’s “A Worn Path”. The main character, Phoenix Jackson, is portrayed in a variety of ways through out the story. Phoenix can be viewed as vulnerable, pathetic, and heroic. Welty utilizes society’s stereotypes as a tool for developing Phoenix’s character. She portrays Phoenix as old and incapable and then breaks the stereotypes by giving her moments of heroism.

Welty begins her character development of Phoenix Jackson by describing her in ways that make her appear vulnerable. Phoenix is embarking on a journey into town and encounters some obstacles set forth by mother nature. It is these particular encounters that Welty uses to play down Phoenix’s character and makes her seem vulnerable. An example of this is when Phoenix comes upon a thorn bush and has a discussion about how the bush is doing its job. It is Welty’s choice of words that make her seem vulnerable, “Finally, trembling all over, she stood free, and after a moment dared to stoop for her cane.” The choice of words describing her after she has crossed through the thorn bush showcase that she is elderly and she is possibly not very strong.

Phoenix continues her on her way and meets up with a hunter; it is here where she begins to show her stronger side. The hunter however, despite Phoenix’s demeanor belittles her and refers to her as granny. He patronizes her by telling her that she needs to go home that it is too far and dangerous for her to make the trip into town. This is a classic example of a societal stereotype that the elderly are incapable of accomplishing certain tasks because of their age.

During her encounter with the hunter he expects Phoenix to be intimidated by him and his gun. He fires off the gun at a dog and is surprised when she is unmoved by his actions. Phoenix simply tells the hunter “I seen plenty go off closer by, in my day, and for less than what I done.” This is a pivotal moment in the story because it is the first true glance of Phoenix’s stronger side. It is here where Welty begins to break down the stereotypes. Most individuals would have been intimidated by the hunter and would have tried to quickly remove themselves from the situation.

There are a couple of relapses building up to Phoenix’s heroic climax. When Phoenix first comes into to town she encounters a woman and asks her to tie her shoes. This gesture makes Phoenix seem pathetic. Another encounter is in the doctor’s office when she seems to have a memory lapse. This incident makes you feel sorry for Phoenix and shows very age. It could be argued that the relapse is to make the true reason of Phoenix’s