How Did Doodle Die in The Scarlet Ibis?
Doodle, a character in the short story “The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst, died due to exhaustion and overexertion. He was physically weak and had a heart condition. During a storm, Doodle tried to keep up with his brother, who had set high expectations for him.
Doodle’s brother, feeling ashamed and frustrated, ran ahead, leaving Doodle behind. Doodle exerted himself too much while trying to catch up, which led to his collapse and death. His death was a tragic result of his brother’s pride and the physical demands placed on him, which his frail body couldn’t handle.
The Role of Brother in Doodle’s Death
The tragic fate of Doodle in “The Scarlet Ibis” is deeply intertwined with the actions and emotions of his older brother, referred to as Brother. Brother’s role in Doodle’s death becomes evident as we delve into the intricate layers of their relationship.
Initially, Brother’s disappointment and lack of acceptance toward Doodle due to his physical disabilities contribute to a negative dynamic between them. This strained relationship sets the tone for the events that follow.
During the pivotal moment of the story, Brother abandons Doodle amidst a storm, failing to provide the support and acceptance that Doodle so desperately craves. This act of neglect worsens Doodle’s emotional state and ultimately leads to his deterioration and eventual death.
The guilt Brother experiences for his actions, or lack thereof, is palpable throughout the story. He uses the death of the Scarlet Ibis, a vibrant and exotic bird, as a coping mechanism for his guilt. Brother draws parallels between the bird and Doodle, attempting to alleviate his own responsibility.
The Symbolism of the Scarlet Ibis
In the poignant short story “The Scarlet Ibis,” the titular bird serves as a powerful symbol that links to the tragic fate of Doodle. As we delve into the symbolism of the Scarlet Ibis in The Scarlet Ibis, we uncover a profound connection between the bird and Doodle.
Firstly, the Scarlet Ibis stands out as an unnatural presence in the story’s setting, just as Doodle does with his physical disabilities. Both the bird and Doodle are seen as different and out of place, emphasizing their struggle to fit in.
The eerie parallel between the ibis and Doodle continues as they both face relentless storms that contribute to their untimely deaths. The ibis succumbs to injury inflicted upon it by the storm, while Doodle’s weakened heart ultimately leads to his tragic demise.
This tragic convergence serves to highlight the delicate nature of life, as well as the vulnerability shared by the bird and Doodle.
Additionally, Brother, the narrator, links Doodle to the scarlet ibis as a way to cope with the guilt he feels for his role in Doodle’s death.
Brother’s guilt manifests as he draws similarities between the bird’s fate and Doodle’s, ultimately creating a connection that allows him to honor Doodle’s memory and find solace in his grief.
