Morality and religion are common themes throughout Southern literature. In "Flannery O'Connor's Misfit and the Mystery of Evil," John Desmond examines the actions of the Misfit and determines how morality and religion relate to themes within Southern Literature. Desmond suggests the Misfit's actions are fueled by a desire to understand ethics; as well as a desire to cure his spiritual suffering. Desmond provides examples of the Misfit's anguish, such as the symbolism behind his name, his internalized isolation, and his reaction to simple kindness. Desmond also provides insight into the morality of other characters, such as The Grandmother. The Misfit's isolation and resistance to change is also exhibited by Hulga in "Good Country People". With each text comes examples of how morality changes a person and dictates their actions through desire.
The Misfit is a self-sufficient, morally isolated character. Throughout "A Good Man is Hard to Find," the Misfit shares with the Grandmother details concerning his name. The Misfit claims …show more content…
O'Connor famously paints a picture of what the South was like Post-war, and includes religious themes in each story she wrote. By analyzing the Misfit, the Grandmother, and Hulga, the audience can identify a clear theme presented by each character-the desire to remain unchanged. Each character shows a refusal to change, mostly exhibited through denial of their condition. Where the characters face anguish, O'Connor ends each story with the realization of their flaws. The Misfit comes to realize he cannot find pleasure in pain, whereas he originally believed meanness was the only form of pleasure achievable. The Grandmother considered herself a good person, whereas she was selfish. Hulga was insecure with her morality and changed her name to avoid change itself. These characters show anguish throughout each story and eventually realize these