http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51QnbTHerEL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg
Briefly describe who the character is and their role in the novel
Through reading this novel, I was able to put myself into the shoes of one notable character, Tobias MacIvey. Tobias was a middle aged man who traveled from Georgia in 1858 to Florida because of the War. He was accompanied by his wife Emma and their six year old son Zech. The MacIvey family created settlement in an oak hammock up near Gainesville, FL. Tobias chose to live in the woods to seek refuge from the ongoing War between the Federal and Confederate Armies. He built a cabin, a smokehouse, and a barn in a little over a year. Tobias was an experienced farmer in Georgia, however, the Florida soil proved to be a challenge with cultivating crops. Tobias relied heavily on his axe and shot gun to provide meat (squirrel, deer, coon, and beef) for his family. Tobias played a beneficial role in this book because he lived one with the land and taught his family to appreciate it for its value. Tobias was also a very humble man who put others first. He saved two seminole indians named Keith and Bird, saved Skillit, and offered jobs to Frog and Bonzo. Tobias exemplified a man with great character who had a passion for welcoming people with open arms.
What is the relationship between the character and their environment and the natural world?
Tobias referred to the Land as a gift from God. He once stated, "The Lord put it here for everyone to use." While traveling to Punta Rasa, Zech asked Tobias why people haven't purchased the vast land on the prairie or fenced it. Tobias was quick to reply that no one should ever be allowed to fence such a majestic piece of land. Tobias relied heavily on the land because it served as shelter, food, and water. His livestock was also dependent on the resources of the land because the MacIvey family did not have excess corn or water to supply the herd. The trees were used as shade from the penetrating sun, the heart of palm was food, and the leaves were bedding. Tobias and his family survived in the middle of no where and used the land as a primary resource. The appreciation Tobias had for the land was evident in his words and actions.
Where does this character experience a strong sense of place and what legacy will/did they leave behind for others?
Tobias experienced a strong sense of place on the prairie trails where he and his family herded wild cattle across the land to Punta Rasa. During this endeavor, Tobias was able to appreciate the characteristics of the land and its surrounding environment. He payed attention to the fast changing weather and the wild animals. He was able to spend time to himself and think about the world, his family, and his future. It was during this journey that Tobias's love and appreciation for Emma grew. The MacIvey family also appreciated Tobias's efforts and they knew that his best interest was to create a better future for each of them. The sacrifices that Tobias endured helped shape a legacy for Emma, Zech, and even Skillit. Emma learned to become independent, strong, and selfless. Zech developed into a strong young man with a good sense of nature, and Skillit gained the love and experience of a true family.
How do you relate to this character?
I think Tobias and I share the same quality of putting others before ourself. Many times I find myself in situations that do not directly benefit me, however, it benefits those around me and that helps me feel useful. Tobias was also an amazing role model to Zech, but also to everyone he came in contact with. I hope that in the future I can also take on that responsibility of being a mentor and use it to instill good values in others. In Tobias's eyes family was the center of the universe. Everything he did was to benefit his family. I too am very family oriented and understand the importance of a structured family.
No comments:
Post a Comment