Miss Strangeworth In The Possibility Of Evil By Shirley Jackson

In the story, ¨The Possibility of Evil¨ by Shirley Jackson, the protagonist and main character, Miss Strangeworth, exemplifies five character qualities that creates interest for the reader. The overall desire of a character is essentially what paves the future events of a storyline. In this story specifically, Miss Strangeworth's desire is profound until the end nears. Additionally, a character's contrast, ability to change, consistency, and complexity are found in multiple references in ¨The Possibility of Evil.¨ Miss Strangeworth's desire is, in a sense, an addiction and passion. The desire of Miss Strangeworth is ultimately her drive to be in the jist of all her neighbors. She meets this desire through certain means, such as eavesdropping. For example, while on her walk to the post office, Miss Strangeworth purposely listened to the conversation between Linda, and her friend. The narrator explains that Miss Strangeworth believes she has a personal right to know the business of her peers. This instance of several throughout the story ultimately defines Miss Strangeworth's desire, and therefore aids in creating future events of the story. …show more content…
When confronted with her neighbors and acquaintances, she is genuine, cordial, and has the personality of a loving grandmother. On the other hand, when she notices something dissatisfying, she does not hesitate to be judgemental of her peers within her mind. While on her walk to the market, Miss Strangeworth speaks cordially to her neighbors, as well those she encounters at the market itself. On the other hand, while at the market, she asks herself about Mrs. Harpers state of health and suggests she need may need a stiff drink. These two polar-opposite traits that possess Miss Strangeworth, explains the contrasting traits and complexity that ultimately defines who a character