Similar to most characters in naturalistic writings, Mr. Haskin's of Hamlin Garland's "Under the Lion's Paw" were confronted with external and internal forces that were beyond their control. They were poor; they lost their farm and were now homeless; they fought and they had been defeated. Yet somehow, they had managed to stay positive, focused, and true to themselves. When given the occasion they were able to rise up, find their inner strength, and withstand, overcome, and even attempt to eliminate these forces against them. By giving them this power, Garland has elevated their status to that of heroes, perhaps even myths.
The Haskins were average, ordinary people who had managed to sustain years of physical and emotional hardship. Mrs. Haskins, a "small, timid" 647) woman, who admits she had "never been very strong" (649)was miraculously able to work the farm all day, cook, clean, and raise the children. Mr. Haskins worked like "a fiend"(652) as well. It was if they were possessed. " No slave in Roman galleys could have toiled so frightfully and lived" (653). Just as soon as their tireless labor began to pay off, the external forces, in this case Butler, returned to try and rob them of their rewards. The Haskins are described as good, hard working, honest people and Butler represents just the opposite. He is the epitome of all that is evil and wrong in the world. Mr. Haskins is so enraged by Butler's dishonesty and thievery that he has no choice but to put an end to him. It is the classic tale of good vs. evil. By putting an end to Butler he is attempting to put an end to all the pain and suffering he has done, and, in a sense be avenged for all the hardships he has been through. Haskins tells Butler, "You"ll never rob another man" (655). Unfortunately, Haskins cannot do the deed; he is too honorable of a man. Once again, despite his noble attempts, he is unable to control the external forces that confront him.
