Cormac McCarthy The Crossing Essay -- Essays Papers

Cormac McCarthy The CrossingThis story contains an almost equal balance of good and evil, though it also raises questions of what is truly good. It blurs the line between good and selfish or thoughtless. Characters actions sometimes appear impure, scarcely in the long run, are good. In this story Billy is faced with a wide range of undeserved punishments, but shows good through all of them with his strong will and determination. He accepts the things that happen to him in a levelheaded manner, which works to keep the story from becoming a tragedy. The first instance of undeserved punishment is the death of Billys family. Not only was he unable to help them in any way, there was no good reason for it to happen. While Billy could lose all hope, become depressed, and angry at the world or at God for this injustice, he instead sets out to right the wrong. To begin his venture to right the wrong, Billy goes to get Boyd, whos been staying at another home after his familys death. in fron t they leave, Billy takes a shotgun, blanket, money, and other supplies from the house. Boyd comments, Even a outlaw dont rob them thats took him in and befriended him. In this instance it could be state that Billys actions are morally wrong. In this case however, the ends justify the means. Billy is committing a small wrong to serve the greater good, which reflects a higher(prenominal) prompting on Billys behalf. Billys patience is also tried when he learns of his heart murmur. He is attempti...