Charles Shirley Jackson Character Analysis

“Charles” Change is a burden; the coping strategies used to deal with it illustrate personality. Shirley Jackson accurately describes the difficulties of growing up through the character Laurie in “Charles.” Seeking attention, Laurie, a troubled kindergartener decides to act out in school to soothe his desire to be noticed. Similar to an average kindergartener, Laurie is energetic and undisciplined. At home in the 1950s, Laurie maunders over the actions of a so called misbehaved boy in his class, Charles. Adjusting to a new sibling complicates Laurie’s life. Therefore, Laurie represented his own experiences by composing an elaborate character in his place. Moreover, the punishments for Laurie’s actions will turn into rewards for his accomplishments.