The present composition will describe and elucidate derivations and meanings of selected names in CLIFFORD ODETS’ play »GOLDEN BOY«. In this, the structure guides along the order of speech in the play. Further on the traced results will be analysed with regard to the contents to find out potential connections between the textual theme and the meaning of the respective names.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Main Part
1 Tom Moody
2 Lorna Moon
3 Joe Bonaparte
4 Tokio
5 Mr. Carp
6 Siggie
7 Mr. Bonaparte
8 Anna
9 Roxy Gottlieb
10 Eddie Fuseli
11 Mickey
12 Sam
13 Lewis
14 Drake
15 Driscoll
16 Barker
Research Objectives and Themes
This academic composition explores the symbolic significance and etymological origins of character names in Clifford Odets' play "Golden Boy" to determine how these names correlate with the characters' roles and the thematic progression of the text.
- Etymological analysis of primary and secondary character names.
- Examination of character development through the lens of nomenclature.
- Identification of ironies and parallels between names and personality traits.
- Analysis of the relationship between character names and their fates within the play.
Excerpts from the Book
3 Joe Bonaparte
The protagonist’s first name is a short form of »Joseph«, meaning “increase”. Also JOE develops during the play: He becomes a successful fighter, earns a lot of money and even captures LORNA’S heart. But at this summit the end of the “golden boy” is impending. The meaning of JOE’S surname, which of course reminds of NAPOLEON I., exactly fits to the meaning of his first name: Also the French sovereign increased with every battle, but on the zenith of his government, the end drew near. The dialogue with the sports writer DRAKE demonstrates another similarity between JOE and NAPOLEON I.: „You`re either a genius or an idiot!“ (p. 305, l. 5]. JOE acts very superciliously, just as the French ruler did in those days.
Furthermore, an ambiguity can be seen in both figures: NAPOLEON’S codification of laws, the Napoleonic Code, and the numerous reforms constituted social milestones. Whereas his rigorous fiscal policy and the domestic suppression brought discredit upon him, and after a disastrous winter campaign in Russia in 1812, he was forced to abdicate. Concerning JOE, the ambiguity lies in his attitude towards music. At first he tells LORNA the following: „With music I’m never alone when I’m alone – Playing music... that’s like saying, “I am man. I belong here. How do you do, World – good evening!” When I play music nothing is closed to me. I’m not afraid of people and what they say. There’s no war in music. It’s not like the streets.” [p. 263, l. 29-33].
Summary of Chapters
1 Tom Moody: Analyzes the character's emotional changeability and fluctuating attitude towards Joe Bonaparte through the derivation of his name.
2 Lorna Moon: Explores how her name hints at her "lost" nature and the conflict between her personal desires and her association with Joe.
3 Joe Bonaparte: Draws parallels between the protagonist and Napoleon I, highlighting the themes of ambition, increase, and eventual downfall.
4 Tokio: Discusses the trainer's role as a mediator between different worlds, reflecting the blend of traditions in his name.
5 Mr. Carp: Highlights the character's pessimistic and critical nature, which is perfectly mirrored in the definition of his name.
6 Siggie: Contrasts the meaning of "victory" and "peace" in his name with his actual status as an ineffective outcast.
7 Mr. Bonaparte: Examines his nameless introduction and the symbolic parallel between him and the father of Napoleon I.
8 Anna: Addresses the irony of her name meaning "grace" in light of her difficult domestic situation.
9 Roxy Gottlieb: Analyzes how his name, meaning "dawn," relates to his influence on Joe and his contradictory surname.
10 Eddie Fuseli: Focuses on his role as a "fortunate guard" and the irony behind his guardianship over Joe.
11 Mickey: Connects his name's meaning to the exploitation of others and his god-like posturing.
12 Sam: Discusses the religious undertones in his name regarding Joe's temporary sense of god-like superiority.
13 Lewis: Examines the linguistic connection between his name and the historical French monarchy.
14 Drake: Explains the negative implications of his name as a "dragon" and his foreshadowing of Joe's failure.
15 Driscoll: Interprets his name as a "messenger" and his role in conveying news within the play.
16 Barker: Relates his name to his shepherd-like protective behavior and his aggressive demeanor towards others.
Keywords
Clifford Odets, Golden Boy, Etymology, Nomenclature, Joe Bonaparte, Character Analysis, Symbolism, Literature, Drama, Irony, Meaning of Names, Socio-cultural Context, Theatrical Themes, Literary Criticism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary subject of this academic paper?
The work investigates the etymological origins and symbolic meanings of character names in the play "Golden Boy" by Clifford Odets to uncover hidden narrative layers.
What are the main thematic fields explored?
The central fields include literary symbolism, character psychology, and the linguistic analysis of names as a tool for foreshadowing and characterization.
What is the central research question?
The paper asks how the derivations and definitions of character names interact with the textual themes and the fate of the characters within the play.
Which scientific method is applied?
The author uses a structural and linguistic analysis approach, tracking the order of speech in the play and cross-referencing names with etymological dictionaries and historical contexts.
What is addressed in the main body of the text?
The main part consists of individual character analyses, where each name is dissected based on its origin and compared with the character's actions and development throughout the play.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
The work is characterized by terms like symbolism, etymology, literary criticism, Clifford Odets, characterization, and the specific names of the protagonists.
How does the name Joe Bonaparte reflect his arc?
The analysis suggests his name means "increase" and draws parallels to Napoleon I, illustrating his rise to success and inevitable downfall as a "golden boy."
In what way does the name "Lorna Moon" support her narrative role?
Her surname is linked to the archaic meaning of "lost," which reflects her internal struggle and her position between a loveless relationship and her feelings for Joe.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Sven Köhler (Autor:in), 2005, Fraught with significance: The meaning of names in Clifford Odets’ »Golden Boy«, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/80668
