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Character Analysis: Rainsford from “The Most Dangerous Game”
In Richard Connell’s short story “The Most Dangerous Game,” Rainsford is the protagonist and main character. He is an accomplished big-game hunter who becomes trapped on the island of General Zaroff, where he becomes the hunted instead of the hunter. Rainsford is a brave and resourceful character who demonstrates intelligence and cunning in his attempts to survive.
Rainsford’s bravery is shown throughout the story as he faces the challenges presented to him. When he falls off the yacht and swims to the island, he is not overcome with fear, but rather, focuses on finding shelter and a way off the island. When he realizes that Zaroff is hunting him, he does not give up or succumb to despair, but instead, makes a plan to outsmart his captor. Rainsford’s bravery and determination are essential to his survival and make him a compelling character.
Additionally, Rainsford is intelligent and cunning, as demonstrated by his ability to anticipate Zaroff’s moves and counter them. When he realizes that Zaroff is tracking him using his footprints, Rainsford creates a trap that allows him to escape. He also outwits Zaroff by hiding in the trees and creating a trap of his own. Rainsford’s intelligence and resourcefulness are what ultimately allow him to survive and defeat Zaroff.
Overall, Rainsford is a complex and well-developed character. He is brave, resourceful, and intelligent, making him a character that readers can root for and admire. His struggles and triumphs on the island of General Zaroff make for an engaging and thrilling story.