John Updike’s Rabbit, Run (1960) is a novel that explores the themes of identity, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life. The novel follows the life of Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, a former high school basketball star who is now stuck in a dead-end job and a loveless marriage. When Rabbit’s wife announces she is pregnant, he becomes overwhelmed and decides to leave his family and hometown in search of a new life. The novel delves into Rabbit’s journey as he grapples with his own identity and the consequences of his actions. In this article, we will explore the themes and plot of Rabbit, Run and examine how they contribute to the overall message of the novel.
Themes in Rabbit, Run
One of the central themes in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run is the search for meaning and purpose in life. The protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, is a young man who feels trapped in his mundane life as a husband and father in a small town. He yearns for something more, something that will give his life meaning and excitement. This search leads him down a path of self-destruction as he tries to find fulfillment in extramarital affairs, alcohol, and aimless wandering. Another theme in the novel is the struggle between individual freedom and societal expectations. Rabbit feels suffocated by the expectations placed on him by his wife, his community, and his own sense of responsibility. He longs to break free from these constraints and live life on his own terms, but he is constantly pulled back by his obligations and the fear of disappointing those around him. These themes are explored through Rabbit’s journey of self-discovery and the choices he makes along the way.
The American Dream
The American Dream is a concept that has been deeply ingrained in the American psyche for centuries. It is the idea that anyone, regardless of their background or social status, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. This dream is often associated with the pursuit of material wealth, but it can also encompass other goals such as freedom, equality, and happiness. In John Updike’s Rabbit, Run, the protagonist Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom is a prime example of someone who is chasing the American Dream. He is a young man who is dissatisfied with his life and is searching for something more. Rabbit believes that by leaving his wife and child and embarking on a new life, he will be able to find the happiness and fulfillment that he has been seeking. However, as the novel progresses, Rabbit’s quest for the American Dream becomes increasingly fraught with difficulty and disillusionment. He discovers that the things he thought would bring him happiness, such as a new relationship and a successful career, are not enough to satisfy him. In the end, Rabbit is left feeling lost and alone, realizing that the American Dream may be nothing more than an illusion. Updike’s novel is a powerful commentary on the pitfalls of the American Dream and the dangers of chasing after something that may not even exist.
Religion and Spirituality
Religion and spirituality play a significant role in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, struggles with his faith and the concept of God throughout the novel. Rabbit’s wife, Janice, is a devout Christian, but Rabbit cannot seem to find the same comfort in religion. He attends church with Janice, but feels disconnected from the sermons and rituals.
Rabbit’s search for meaning and purpose leads him to explore various spiritual practices, including meditation and Eastern philosophy. However, he ultimately finds himself drawn back to Christianity, albeit in a more personal and individualized way.
Updike’s portrayal of religion and spirituality in Rabbit, Run reflects the cultural and social changes of the 1960s, when traditional religious institutions were being challenged and alternative spiritual practices were gaining popularity. The novel raises important questions about the role of religion in modern society and the search for spiritual fulfillment in a rapidly changing world.
Marriage and Infidelity
Marriage and infidelity are prominent themes in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The novel explores the complexities of marriage and the consequences of infidelity through the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom. Rabbit is married to Janice, but he becomes dissatisfied with their life together and begins an affair with a young woman named Ruth. The affair ultimately leads to the unraveling of Rabbit’s life and the destruction of his marriage. Updike’s portrayal of marriage and infidelity is both realistic and poignant, highlighting the fragility of relationships and the devastating effects of betrayal.
Parenting and Responsibility
Parenting and Responsibility are two of the most important themes in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The novel explores the challenges and complexities of parenthood, as well as the responsibilities that come with it. The protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, is a young father who struggles to balance his responsibilities as a parent with his desire for freedom and independence. Throughout the novel, Rabbit grapples with the consequences of his actions and the impact they have on his family. The theme of parenting and responsibility is particularly relevant in the context of Rabbit’s relationship with his wife, Janice, and their young son, Nelson. As Rabbit navigates the challenges of parenthood, he is forced to confront his own shortcomings and the ways in which his actions affect those around him. Ultimately, the novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and the impact they have on others, especially when it comes to the complex and challenging task of parenting.
Identity and Self-Discovery
In John Updike’s Rabbit, Run, the protagonist Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom is on a journey of self-discovery and identity. Throughout the novel, Rabbit struggles with his sense of self and his place in the world. He is constantly searching for something more, something that will give his life meaning and purpose.
Rabbit’s identity crisis is rooted in his dissatisfaction with his current life. He is unhappy with his job, his marriage, and his role as a father. He feels trapped and suffocated by the expectations placed upon him by society and his family.
As Rabbit embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he begins to question everything he has ever known. He starts to explore new ideas and experiences, hoping to find a sense of purpose and fulfillment. However, his search for identity is not without its challenges.
Rabbit’s journey is fraught with obstacles and setbacks. He struggles with addiction, infidelity, and the consequences of his actions. He is forced to confront his own flaws and shortcomings, and to come to terms with the person he has become.
Ultimately, Rabbit’s journey of self-discovery leads him to a greater understanding of himself and his place in the world. He learns to accept his flaws and to embrace his identity, even if it is not what he had hoped for. In the end, Rabbit’s journey serves as a reminder that self-discovery is a lifelong process, and that the search for identity is never truly over.
Alienation and Isolation
The theme of alienation and isolation is prevalent throughout John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, feels disconnected from his family, friends, and society as a whole. He struggles to find meaning and purpose in his life, leading him to make impulsive and destructive decisions. Rabbit’s sense of isolation is further exacerbated by his infidelity and the breakdown of his marriage. As he searches for a sense of belonging, Rabbit becomes increasingly detached from those around him, ultimately leading to his downfall. Updike’s exploration of alienation and isolation highlights the human need for connection and the consequences of failing to find it.
Sexuality and Gender Roles
In John Updike’s Rabbit, Run, sexuality and gender roles play a significant role in shaping the characters and their relationships. The novel explores the traditional gender roles of the 1950s and how they affect the characters’ behavior and expectations. Rabbit, the protagonist, struggles with his masculinity and the societal pressure to be a provider and protector for his family. His wife, Janice, is portrayed as a submissive housewife who is dependent on Rabbit for her happiness and well-being. However, as the novel progresses, Janice begins to challenge these gender roles and assert her own independence. The novel also delves into the taboo topic of extramarital affairs and the double standards that exist for men and women. Overall, Rabbit, Run offers a complex and nuanced portrayal of sexuality and gender roles in mid-twentieth century America.
Alcoholism and Addiction
Alcoholism and addiction are prominent themes in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The novel follows the life of Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, a former high school basketball star who is struggling to find meaning in his life. Rabbit turns to alcohol and other vices to cope with his feelings of emptiness and dissatisfaction. His addiction ultimately leads to the destruction of his relationships and his own downfall. Updike’s portrayal of Rabbit’s addiction is a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of substance abuse and the toll it can take on individuals and their loved ones.
Death and Mortality
Death and Mortality are recurring themes in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. The novel explores the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. The protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, is confronted with death at various points in the novel. The death of his infant daughter, Rebecca, is a turning point in Rabbit’s life. He becomes disillusioned with his marriage and his life in general. Rabbit’s fear of death is also evident throughout the novel. He is afraid of dying and leaving his family behind. Rabbit’s fear of death is a reflection of his fear of the unknown. The novel suggests that death is a natural part of life and that it should be accepted rather than feared. Updike’s exploration of death and mortality adds depth and complexity to the novel.
The Plot of Rabbit, Run
Rabbit, Run is a novel by John Updike that follows the life of Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, a former high school basketball star who is now struggling to find meaning in his life. The novel begins with Rabbit feeling trapped in his marriage and his job as a sales representative. He decides to leave his wife and young son and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, he meets a young woman named Ruth and begins a tumultuous affair with her. As Rabbit tries to navigate his new life, he is forced to confront his past and the choices that have led him to where he is now. The novel explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life.
Character Analysis
One of the most complex and intriguing characters in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run is the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom. Rabbit is a former high school basketball star who is struggling to find meaning and purpose in his life. He is married to Janice, with whom he has a young son, but he is unhappy in his marriage and feels trapped in his small town life. Rabbit is a deeply flawed character, but he is also sympathetic and relatable in many ways.
One of Rabbit’s defining characteristics is his restlessness. He is constantly searching for something more, something that will give his life meaning and purpose. This restlessness leads him to make impulsive decisions, such as leaving his wife and child to pursue an affair with a young woman named Ruth. Rabbit is also prone to self-destructive behavior, such as drinking heavily and engaging in reckless driving.
Despite his flaws, Rabbit is a complex and multi-dimensional character. He is not simply a selfish or immoral person; rather, he is struggling to find his place in the world and to make sense of his own desires and motivations. As the novel progresses, Rabbit begins to realize the consequences of his actions and the impact they have on those around him. He begins to question his own choices and to consider the possibility of redemption.
Overall, Rabbit is a fascinating character who embodies many of the themes and ideas explored in Updike’s novel. Through his struggles and his search for meaning, Rabbit represents the human condition in all its complexity and ambiguity.
Rabbit Angstrom
Rabbit Angstrom is the protagonist of John Updike’s novel Rabbit, Run. He is a former high school basketball star who is struggling to find meaning in his life. Rabbit is married to Janice, and they have a young son named Nelson. However, Rabbit is unhappy with his life and feels trapped in his marriage and job. He decides to leave his family and start a new life, but his actions have consequences that he never anticipated. Throughout the novel, Rabbit is forced to confront his own flaws and the consequences of his actions. The character of Rabbit Angstrom is a complex and flawed individual who represents the struggles of many Americans in the 1950s and 60s.
Janice Angstrom
Janice Angstrom is one of the central characters in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. She is the wife of the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, and the mother of their young son, Nelson. Janice is portrayed as a woman who is deeply unhappy with her life and her marriage. She is bored with her role as a housewife and feels trapped in her suburban existence.
Janice’s dissatisfaction with her life is evident from the beginning of the novel. She is portrayed as a woman who is constantly drinking and smoking, trying to escape from the monotony of her daily routine. She is also shown to be emotionally distant from her husband and son, preferring to spend her time alone or with her friends.
As the novel progresses, Janice’s unhappiness becomes more pronounced. She begins an affair with Rabbit’s friend, Eccles, and becomes pregnant with his child. This revelation causes Rabbit to leave his family and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Janice’s character is significant in the novel because she represents the limitations and frustrations of the traditional gender roles of the 1950s. She is a woman who is expected to be content with her role as a wife and mother, but who longs for something more. Her affair with Eccles is a rebellion against the constraints of her life, but it ultimately leads to her downfall.
Overall, Janice Angstrom is a complex and tragic character in Rabbit, Run. Her dissatisfaction with her life and her marriage is a reflection of the larger societal changes that were taking place in the 1950s. Her story is a reminder of the importance of individual freedom and the dangers of conformity.
Ruth Leonard
Ruth Leonard is a pivotal character in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run. She is the mistress of the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, and represents the escape from his mundane life. Ruth is a complex character, with a troubled past and a desire for control. She is also a symbol of the sexual revolution of the 1960s, as she is unapologetic about her sexuality and desires. However, her relationship with Rabbit is not without its complications, as she becomes pregnant and must navigate the societal expectations of motherhood. Ruth’s character adds depth to the novel’s exploration of themes such as identity, sexuality, and societal expectations.
Eccles
Eccles is a small town in Pennsylvania where Rabbit and his family reside. It is a typical American suburb with neatly trimmed lawns and white picket fences. However, beneath the surface, there is a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction among the residents. Rabbit feels trapped in this town and yearns for something more. He sees Eccles as a dead-end and wants to escape its suffocating grip. The town serves as a symbol of the limitations and constraints that Rabbit feels in his life. It is a place where conformity and tradition reign supreme, and individuality is stifled. Rabbit’s desire to break free from Eccles is a reflection of his desire to break free from the constraints of society and find his own path.
Tothero
Tothero is a character in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run who serves as a foil to the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom. Tothero is Rabbit’s coworker at the printing plant and is described as being overweight and unattractive. Unlike Rabbit, Tothero is content with his mundane life and does not seek out excitement or change. Rabbit, on the other hand, is constantly searching for something more and is dissatisfied with his current situation.
Tothero’s presence in the novel highlights Rabbit’s restlessness and desire for something more. Rabbit sees Tothero as a symbol of what he does not want to become – someone who is content with a mediocre life. However, Tothero also serves as a reminder that not everyone shares Rabbit’s desire for change and that there is value in finding contentment in the present moment.
Overall, Tothero’s character adds depth to the novel’s exploration of themes such as dissatisfaction, the search for meaning, and the struggle to find contentment in life.
Minor Characters
While Rabbit, Run primarily focuses on the protagonist Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, there are several minor characters who play important roles in the story. One such character is Ruth Leonard, Rabbit’s mistress. Ruth is a complex character who is both alluring and dangerous. She represents the temptation and escape that Rabbit seeks from his mundane life. Another minor character is Eccles, Rabbit’s former basketball coach. Eccles serves as a reminder of Rabbit’s past and the potential he once had. He also provides Rabbit with a brief moment of clarity and self-reflection. Other minor characters include Lucy Eccles, Eccles’ wife, and Janice Angstrom, Rabbit’s wife. Both women are struggling with their own issues and add depth to the story. Overall, the minor characters in Rabbit, Run serve to highlight Rabbit’s flaws and provide insight into his motivations and desires.
Symbols and Motifs
One of the most prominent symbols in John Updike’s Rabbit, Run is the car. Throughout the novel, the car represents freedom and escape for the protagonist, Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom. Rabbit’s obsession with his car is evident from the beginning of the novel, as he spends hours washing and polishing it. The car also serves as a means of escape for Rabbit, as he uses it to run away from his problems and responsibilities. However, as the novel progresses, the car becomes a symbol of Rabbit’s inability to escape his problems and his own self-destructive tendencies. The car ultimately leads to Rabbit’s downfall, as he crashes it while driving drunk and kills a young woman. The car symbolizes the dangers of unchecked desire and the consequences of running away from one’s problems.
Style and Language
Updike’s writing style in Rabbit, Run is characterized by its vivid imagery and attention to detail. He uses descriptive language to paint a picture of the world his characters inhabit, from the rundown neighborhoods of Brewer to the lush countryside of Pennsylvania. Updike’s prose is often poetic, with a lyrical quality that captures the beauty and complexity of everyday life.
At the same time, Updike’s language can be blunt and raw, particularly when it comes to the characters’ emotions and desires. He doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker aspects of human nature, including infidelity, addiction, and violence. This frankness gives the novel a sense of authenticity and realism, even as it explores larger themes of identity, morality, and the search for meaning in life.
Overall, Updike’s style and language in Rabbit, Run are both powerful and evocative, drawing readers into the world of his characters and immersing them in their struggles and triumphs. Whether describing the beauty of a summer day or the pain of a broken heart, Updike’s writing is always engaging and thought-provoking, making Rabbit, Run a timeless classic of American literature.