12 Angry Men Old Age Analysis

Register to read the introduction… In his old age he is able to maintain quiet and observant disposition throughout the play which allows him to catch minor details which others may have overlooked. His observation of the old man witness demonstrates his own experience as an old man who has never been recognised until he was called to participate in a jury. This is affirmed when he says: “I think I know him better than anyone here. This is a quiet old man…newspapers.”(Act 1 page 27) The wisdom of the 9th juror which has developed over the years through his experiences in life grants him insight which aids not only himself but some of the other jurors’ to come to terms with the innocence of the boy. Thus, the 9th juror’s age plays a major role in his decision-making. …show more content…
His upbringing in a slum assisted him in reasoning with the other jurors’ of the innocence of the defendant. It is for this reason that he was able to explain the way to hold the switchblade knife. He says: “you don’t use this kind of knife that way.” (Act 2 page 49). Perhaps with the knowledge he has accumulated by living in a slum gives him an upper hand over the rest of the jurors’ as he can relate to it. Accordingly the 5th jurors background aids him in making a wise decision.

Ultimately, Rose has clearly explained that personal experience is an important aspect that influences the human decision-making processes. This is ascertained when the 3rd Juror’s agonizing experience with his son forces him to vote for guilty, the 9th juror’s old age grants him wisdom and insight and the 5th Juror’s life in a slum allows him to make a sound decision. Therefore personal experience is a very important factor that affects a person’s