Character: Neil

Character Analysis: Neil

Neil is one of the cone gatherers in the novel ‘The Cone Gatherers’, written by Robin Jenkins.
He is the older brother to Calum and holds a protective stance towards him, showing a deep sense of responsibility and brotherly love.
Portrayed as practical and sensible, Neil constantly attempts to shield Calum from the hostility and discrimination they face in society.
Neil harbours a deep resentment towards the upper class, particularly represented by characters like Duror and Lady Runcie-Campbell.
This resentment stems from the harsh treatment and unjust discrimination they face as cone gatherers, spotlighting the class-related prejudices in the society.

Neil’s Development and Influence

Throughout the plot, Neil’s anger and resentment towards the social injustice grow, fuelling his desire for a better place in society.
He dreams of owning a piece of land, symbolising a desire for stability, recognition, and a sense of belonging within society.
The experience of being oppressed so profoundly impacts Neil that he starts to internalise some of the hateful qualities of their oppressors.
As a result, Neil’s viewpoints and actions prove crucial to the storyline’s progression and the book’s central themes of class discrimination, morality, and social injustice.

Symbolism and Themes Connected to Neil

Neil, with his bitterness and dreams, symbolises the struggle of the working class and the desire for social mobility.
His resentment and growing hatred mirror the negative aspects of the society Jenkins critiques.
Neil’s treatment of his brother and his visceral reaction to injustice highlight the detrimental effects of societal discrimination and the human capacity for compassion and cruelty.
Neil’s character arc represents the harsh realities faced by many in a class-stratified society, underscoring the importance of societal change for equality and justice.

Reading about Neil’s character will contribute to a broader understanding of the book’s themes, societal commentary, and characterisation elements. His role, actions, and evolving emotions provide a canvas to critique and analyse the social norms and prejudices prevalent during the time.