The True Villains of Casablanca Phoebe Witts 11th Grade

Rick is far from the most detestable character in Casablanca. While he demonstrates some qualities and actions that could lead to the assumption that he is loathsome, he is not to be confused with his cowardly counterparts. His tireless charade at the beginning of Casablanca may give the wrong impression, as he appears cynical and aloof, detached not just from other people but from the traumatising events happening around him. This quickly changes as the film progresses and his strong moral compass shines through in his good deeds, proving he is a sentimentalist at heart. This is not the case for some of the other characters as their weak, unscrupulous ways become apparent, making Rick seem almost angelic in comparison.

Rick’s actions toward the poor Bulgarian couple are telling. When he sees them desperate to escape the uncertainty permeating Casablanca, he is reluctant at first to assist them. His idealistic side soon wins out and he allows the husband to win roulette, saving him from the city’s fearful grasp. A horrible person would surely not have rolled over as quickly and easily as Rick did and this act disproved his earlier statement that he “(stuck his) neck out for nobody”. Also, in the flashback to Paris we see his...