The Pearl

In The Pearl, you learn about the pearl's symbolism as hope from the reactions it evokes. The pearl brought out the human characteristic of hope in Kino. He dreams about the improved future that he could guarantee his family with the pearl's guidance. Juana showed the human characteristic of caution when the pearl was found. She suspected trouble from the very beginning and she told Kino that he should just throw the pearl out before it takes over his whole life. The neighbors of Kino showed the human trait of envy. Everyone wanted the great gem of the sea and all swarmed around Kino and his pearl like rats in the sewer. The townspeople showed the human trait of curiosity by following Kino where ever he went with his precious pearl. The pearl brought out the human trait of greed in the doctor. Before Kino had the pearl, the doctor was not willing to help Coyotito, but as soon as he heard of Kino finding this treasure, the doctor was practically begging to help him…in exchange for the pearl, of course. Finally, the pearl revealed the human trait of imperfection in the priest. Even though the priest was a very holy man, he still had flaws. He wanted the pearl. He wanted to marry Kino and Juana and baptize their son in exchange for that valuable treasure. Even though The Pearl is just a story, the same human qualities can often be revealed when a fortune is present.