what do main characterss do in the story?

Jim Hawkins

The young (probably 13 or 14) Jim Hawkins is the narrator of the adventure that is told in Treasure Island. It is his feelings, perceptions, and emotional responses that the reader responds to and views the story through. Jim Hawkins is the typical young boy, who through no fault of his own, becomes involved in the ultimate adventure, especially for a boy of his age. Through this process, Jim transforms from someone who is merely an onlooker, to an active participant who determines his own fate by courageous, and often very risky, actions. Although it is not due to his bravery or any special skills, it is he and not the older, more experienced men on the journey who uncover the pirates plan for mutiny, find Ben Gunn and enlist him in their cause, and steal the Hispanolia and return it to the captain.

Jim thinks on his feet and by the end of the book has matured into a capable, competent boy. It is in his triumph over Israel Hands on the Hispanolia that his physically maturation is complete, and likewise, his decision not to run away from Long John Silver when urged by Dr. Livesey that his moral maturation is complete. Jim returns home to write the story and is haunted by Long John Silver and his parrot in his dreams long after his return from Treasure Island.

Dr. Livesey

From the moment that Dr. Livesey appears in Treasure Island, he is depicted as an arbitrator who is fair, intelligent, fearless, and well-organized. As he becomes involved in the treasure hunt, he also shows consideration and kindness to Jim, thus, becoming one of many surrogate parental figures to Jim in the course of the novel. Dr. Livesey is also a narrator of the novel (although only for a few chapters). These chapters are not nearly as colorful or as emotionally charged as the chapters that are narrated by the younger Jim. His descriptions further his characterizations as a scientist, who is most concerned with curing the sick (he repeatedly mentions the malaria present in the swamps). Dr. Livesy is also extremely concerned with fairness to all, as his concern about the pirates that they had to leave behind demonstrates.

Squire Trelawney

Squire Trealwney is the figure in the book who finacially underwrites and initiates the treasure hunt. Although he appears to be on top of things, he often makes mistakes and his hiring of Long John Silver and the mutineers tops the list of misjudgments and miscalculations which lead to the downfall of the journey. He is very naïve and trusting, and, thus, is constantly being duped. His best quality is his ability to shoot straight - throughout the novel, he is given the jobs that require the best shot because of his famous aim.

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