ider “normal” (Fussell, p.111). The novel itself is broken up into several short stories. These short stories are linked through the character of George Willard, who is essentially the main character. Because of this, Winesburg is considered a Bildungsroman, the character development of George “the artist” to George “the man”. His development occurs through his contact and dealing with the characters in the stories. Each character offers something new in his development, as in advice or wisdom. These “grotesques” rely on George to take notice of their isolation and falsehood, in hopes of George publishing their “truths”: Each in turn comes forward to offer his secret (the material of art) And to give up whatever fragmentary wisdom he may possess Toward the development of the artist who will be the spokesman For everyone.” (Fussell, p.111).So, it is through these encounters with George that the reader is introduced to the strong sense of isolation and underdevelopment the characters possess. The first example, is in the story “Hands”. Here, the character of Wing Biddlbaum is introduced, and right from the start, appears to have isolated himself from the rest of society. “Among all the people of Winesburg but one had come close to him.” (p.27). This one person, is of course George Willard, who is portrayed in this first story as a friend of Wing Biddlbaum. George is someone he can talk to, break free temporarily ofhis isolation. In addition to talking openly with George enthusiastically, he also was very expressive and active with his hands when in the presence of George. In doing so, Wing is the first to approach George with the notion that there is more to the world than the town of...
