Story Plots: The Role of Adult Characters

How do adult characters contribute to the plots of the stories "Excerpt from Under the Persimmon Tree" and "Excerpt from Minuk: Ashes in the Pathway"?

What are the differences in the ways the adult characters contribute to the plots?

Role of Adult Characters in the Stories

In "Excerpt from Under the Persimmon Tree" by Suzanne Fisher Staples and "Excerpt from Minuk: Ashes in the Pathway" by Kirkpatrick Hill, adult characters play a crucial role in shaping the plot of each story. However, their contributions differ significantly.

In "Under the Persimmon Tree," the adult character of Najmah's father is a central figure driving the plot forward. He is respected in the community for his wisdom and knowledge. His tragic death forces Najmah to navigate the world alone, setting the stage for her journey of survival and self-discovery amidst war and turmoil.

On the other hand, adult characters in "Minuk: Ashes in the Pathway" have a more peripheral role. The focus is on Minuk, a young girl adapting to a new culture at a boarding school. While adult characters like Minuk's mother and teacher are important, they do not steer the plot. The story revolves around Minuk's personal growth and resilience.

Despite these distinctions, both narratives emphasize the significance of family and community during challenging times. In "Under the Persimmon Tree," Najmah finds solace and strength in her family and fellow refugees, highlighting the power of unity in adversity. Similarly, in "Minuk: Ashes in the Pathway," Minuk's relationship with her mother and peers underscores the importance of connection and support in overcoming obstacles.

The adult characters in these stories may contribute differently to the plot, but they share a common theme of the pivotal role of relationships and community in navigating hardships and finding resilience.