Golden Boy: Analysis of Major Characters
"Golden Boy" is a dramatic exploration of the complex interplay between ambition, identity, and personal relationships through its major characters. The central figure, Joe Bonaparte, is a young violinist who, feeling marginalized and ridiculed, turns to boxing as a way to gain power and recognition. This shift leads to significant internal conflict, as the fame and fortune from the ring come at a steep cost, altering Joe's character and distancing him from his original passion for music. His romantic involvement with Lorna Moon adds another layer of complexity, as she is torn between her love for Joe and her existing relationship with Tom Moody, Joe's fight manager. Lorna's influence ultimately leads Joe to reconsider his boxing career, yet their shared fate tragically ends when they both die in an automobile accident. The narrative also highlights the paternal struggle of Mr. Bonaparte, who initially disapproves of Joe's boxing but later recognizes his son’s commitment to the sport. Alongside these primary characters is Eddie Fuseli, who represents the darker side of the boxing world as a gambler with vested interests in Joe's success. Overall, "Golden Boy" presents a poignant exploration of the sacrifices and consequences of pursuing one's dreams amidst competing loyalties and societal pressures.
Golden Boy: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Clifford Odets
First published: 1937
Genre: Play
Locale: New York City
Plot: Social realism
Time: The 1930's
Joe Bonaparte, a young violinist who becomes a prize-fighter. At heart a musician, he has been laughed at and hurt by people against whom he longs to fight back. The fame and money he earns in the ring make retaliation possible but brutalize Joe and change his personality. He falls in love with Lorna Moon, who finally persuades him to give up the ring. That night, they are both killed in an automobile accident.
Tom Moody, Joe Bonaparte's fight manager and part owner.
Lorna Moon, Tom Moody's mistress. Asked by Joe Bonaparte's father to help the fighter find himself, she falls in love with him but feels that she cannot give up Tom Moody, whose wife has at last consented to a divorce so that he can marry her. Finally, in Joe's dressing room after a triumphant fight, she tells him again that she loves him and persuades him to leave the ring. She is killed with him that night in an automobile accident.
Mr. Bonaparte, Joe Bonaparte's father. Hoping that Joe will give up fighting and return to music, he refuses the parental blessing on Joe's career until he sorrowfully sees that his son is totally committed to the ring. When Joe is killed, he claims the body and brings the boy home where he belongs.
Eddie Fuseli, a gambler and part owner of Joe Bonaparte.