Phoenix Jackson In A Worn Path

In Eudora Welty’s “A Worn Path," Phoenix Jackson has a sick grandson. He is very ill and in need of medicine. Phoenix shows dedication throughout the story by going on a journey and getting the necessary medicine for her grandson despite the many obstacles along the way. She embodies the characteristics of a strong African American woman who faces challenges along her path. Phoenix Jackson is characterized throughout the story by her devotion, pride, and perseverance. One way, Phoenix Jackson is characterized is by her devotion. She is devoted to getting her grandson life-saving medicine. She says, “keep the big wild hogs out of my path. Don’t let none of those come running my direct. I got a long way” (Welty pg. 1). This shows she was dedicated to her journey. Another way Phoenix is characterized by her devotion she was not scared of the hunter when he threatened her life. He “lifted his gun and pointed it at Phoenix. She stood straight and faced him” (Welty pg. 4). This shows her devotion and pride because she did not let the hunter scare her. …show more content…
She shows pride when she doesn’t let the women in the hospital degrade her verbally. The nurse says, “Tell us quickly about your grandson get it over. He isn’t dead, is he?” (Welty pg. 5). This would offend other people, but not Phoenix. The pride she has for herself does not allow her to feel offended by the nurse’s demeaning words. She also shows pride for herself by what she wears. Even though she does not have a lot, she makes sure her appearance is always “neat and tidy” (Welty pg. 1). This shows that Phoenix holds herself to a higher standard despite her poverty. Even though Phoenix lives in poverty, she overcomes many obstacles throughout the