ting, "the Misfit believes that in the present uncertain state of thing "meanness" is the only answer" (2). The Misfit's evil nature warrants him to trust nobody. The Misfit is truly an evil character that has a complete lack of faith and remorse.Though Bailey and June Star are of little importance, they do allow us to gain some insight in to Flannery O'Connor's observations about modern society. Bailey is a submissive male who is easily manipulated by others (Blythe & Sweet 1). The bright parrot shirt indicates his submissive outlook on life. Bailey represents the lack of authority in modern society. Little June Star is an extremely rude child who has no respect for adults. She does not think twice about her insult directed at Red Sammy's wife. June Star is the perfect indication of the decline in refinement in society. O'Connor's supplemental characters depict a dismal picture of modern society.Red Sammy is another character that appears to be genuinely good person. When scrutinized, it is discovered that Red Sammy represents evil. Critic C.R. Kropf interpreted Red Sammy as "a devil figure in metaphorical hell" (2). Kropf came to this explanation because of the similarities between Red Sammy and the Devil. The color red found in Sammy's name is a obvious reference to hell and the Devil. Strangely, Sammy keeps a chained monkey outside his home. The monkey can be interpreted as "a grotesque travesty of fallen man" (2). Red Sammy's wife is even described as "burnt-brown" (O'Connor 269). This is definitely a reference to the flames and extreme heat of hell. Associating Red Sammy with the devil fits the theme of the story perfectly.The grandmother's actions are center of debate among critics. Interpreting the conflict between the grandmother and the Misfit is the key to unlocking O'Connor's message. The scene's ambiguity has compelled many critics to argue over its intended interpretation. Critics dispute whether the ...
