A Candle for Saint Anthony

The issue that arises earliest in the novel, and is used as the catalyst for the friendship of the two main characters (oddly enough), is the one of discrimination. The novel shows how discriminative behaviour is acquired. In the novel, it show how the family can influence a person’s attitude, in this case, his father, who has prejudiced ideas of Catholics, which, as explained by his mother was a result of “some unfortunate experience when he was younger”. Justin is also influenced by his friends, or at least their authoritive figure e.g. Bradley’s father, who classifies people as ‘spags’ or ‘wogs’ if he believes them to be totally un-Australian. However, whether discrimination can play a part in forming positive relationships is questionable and very unlikely, and has probably been put there purely for the progression of the story and its entertainment value.

The difference in lifestyles between the two main characters is clear from their introductions at the start of the book. The first chapter is devoted to the introduction of Justin and his family, and shows how opulent they are, with their swimming pool and his attending of an exclusive enough school, which costs twice as much as the local high school. In the second chapter, it describes the lifestyle of Rudi and his family, who appears to be less well off than Justin’s family. Rudi has a part-time job that is used to pay for his school fees at his newly chosen school, which happens to be the one Justin attends. The lack of a colour television in their home, and their ignorance of how widespread colour films are give some indication to their socio-economic stature. Perhaps the most significant indication is Justin’s visit to Rudi’s flat, making critical comments of what he sees, including how sparse Rudi’s home is compared to his “scrupulously-furnished quarters” He also compares the attitude of one his other friends who complains how his freedoms were limited, having a built in stereo and a view of the National Park from his room’s balcony, while Rudi would be lucky to lucky to have a decent view of the laundry across the street. Their different backgrounds also affect their lifestyle, from the small things such as what they have for afterno

Some topics in this essay:
Australian Austrian, Saint Anthony, National Park, Austria Justin, Justin Rudi, main characters, SAINT ANTHONY, friendship main characters, candle saint anthony, conclusion book, candle saint, friendship main, school fees, saint anthony, relationships issue, entertainment value, issue novel,