A&P and Other Stories Lesson Plan

How is selfishness a theme in the story? Which characters display this trait?

Almost all the characters in the story display selfishness or self-absorption in some way. Richard, the protagonist, has made a selfish choice by having an affair. He has chosen another woman he wishes to marry even though it will dissolve his marriage and cause pain to his family. Joan displays selfishness in her unyielding control over the separation discussion. She wants the discussion to happen in her way so that she can control the narrative. She is frustrated by Richard's unexpected tears since they make her appear like the cold-hearted one who is kicking him out of the house. John...