The Pearl takes place in an impoverished Mexican-Indian community in La Paz. In this story Kino and Juana are used as a symbol of this community. Kino is a devoted father who loves his son, Coyotito and his wife, Juana. When the story begins, the couple is perfectly content with their situation and their lack of material possessions. As Kino takes a look at his family, he realizes that this is the "whole" and it is everything he needs. The scorpion that bites the young Coyotito symbolizes their vulnerability and the possibility of danger that faces them. After the scorpion bites Coyotito, Kino and Juana bring him to the doctor, who refuses to treat him, knowing full well of their economic status. The doctor represents society and how they place a value on a human life. H
In finding the Pearl, Kino gives Coyotito the ability to be educated and choose his own profession and lifestyle apart from the one his parents have known. Kino knows the stability and prosperity that the pearl will give him and his family. This is similar to the typical American dream of fortune and success. The pearl allows Kino to gain importance and admiration in the community. However, there are also alternate feelings of jealousy and greed. The doctor, who had just recently refused to treat Coyotitio, now pays Kino a visit. By the doctor's attempt to locate the pearl in Kino's hut, it shows that he intends to steal the pearl. We now see the actual influence money has and the greed exhibited by people who want the pearl for themselves. An anonymous thief attempts
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