Peace Like A River Analysis

Throughout the novel, Peace Like a River, by Leif Enger, the plot has a major affect on the characterization of Reuben. In the beginning, Reuben starts off as a very dependent boy when describing, “I believe I was preserved, through those twelve airless minutes, in order to be a witness” (4). The only reason he stayed alive was because of his father’s miracles. His weak lungs cause him to need additional assistance for the simple task of breathing. One of his weaknesses was the fact he heavily relied on Swede, Davy, and Jeremiah to make choices for him. One of the choices he has to make is his opinion towards the issue about Davy murdering Israel Finch and Tommy Basca. With the persuasion of Swede, he decides he wants to break Davy out of jail
At this point in his journey Reuben’s character growth develops because while staying with Roxanna, he starts to see Swede as more of a child when he describes her tantrum as she throws her toothbrush at him in frustration (195). Reuben has always portrayed Swede as more intelligent and powerful by placing her on a pedestal despite her younger age. His maturity increases, because by starting to grow up he can see the child within Swede instead of idolizing his younger sibling. Reuben also starts to mature when he exposes Davy’s hideout to the police in order to help Andreeson. Although he is betraying Davy and helping his “enemy,” Reuben takes action in hopes of keeping, Jape, whom Davy is living with, from murdering Andreeson. He independently made the decision without letting the influence of anyone else, including Davy, alter his choice. Unfortunately, during one situation Reuben did not have a choice; when Jeremiah was shot by Jape. Together they meet in Heaven where Reuben must part ways with his father (303). By losing the faithful man who provided miracles for Reuben, it forced him to become more independent. Jeremiah sacrifices his life for the gift of healthy lungs for