Percy Wetmore, the antagonist of Stephen King's novel "The Green Mile", is a complex and intriguing character. As a corrections officer at Cold Mountain Penitentiary, Wetmore is known for his brutal and sadistic treatment of the inmates. His cruel nature and abuse of power make him a formidable figure in the story.
Wetmore's backstory, as revealed through the novel, sheds light on the events that shaped him into the person he becomes. His cruel behavior towards the inmates is a result of his own traumatic experiences and his desire for control and power. Despite this, Wetmore's actions are never justified, and his abuse of authority is a major theme throughout the story.
Wetmore's Relationship with the Inmates
Percy Wetmore's interactions with the inmates are marked by cruelty, disrespect, and a complete disregard for their humanity. He delights in making their lives more difficult and takes great pleasure in doling out punishments, no matter how minor the infraction. His treatment of the inmates is often arbitrary and capricious, with no regard for the consequences of his actions.
One of the most striking examples of Wetmore's cruelty is his treatment of John Coffey, a man with supernatural healing powers. Despite Coffey's gentle nature and obvious innocence, Wetmore takes great pleasure in tormenting him, often going out of his way to make his life more difficult.
Wetmore's Conflict with Paul Edgecombe
Percy Wetmore's conflict with Paul Edgecombe, the superintendent of the Green Mile, is a significant plot point in the novel. Edgecombe, who is a just and fair man, is appalled by Wetmore's behavior and does everything in his power to stop him. However, Wetmore's connections with the governor and his family make him almost untouchable, and Edgecombe is forced to tread carefully.
Despite the obstacles in his way, Edgecombe remains determined to bring Wetmore to justice and put an end to his reign of terror. The conflict between these two men drives much of the plot and serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold.
Wetmore's Downfall
In the end, Percy Wetmore's downfall is a result of his own actions. His cruelty and abuse of power ultimately lead to his demise, as he becomes increasingly isolated and alone. His connection with the governor, which had once protected him, is severed, and he is left to face the consequences of his actions.
The novel ends with Wetmore's brutal and well-deserved comeuppance, as he is left a broken and humiliated man. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of treating all human beings with dignity and respect.
What is Percy Wetmore's role in The Green Mile?
+Percy Wetmore is a corrections officer at Cold Mountain Penitentiary, known for his cruel and sadistic treatment of the inmates.
What motivates Percy Wetmore's behavior?
+Wetmore's behavior is motivated by a desire for control and power, as well as a need to assert his dominance over the inmates.
How does Percy Wetmore's conflict with Paul Edgecombe drive the plot?
+The conflict between Wetmore and Edgecombe serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold, as Edgecombe seeks to bring Wetmore to justice and put an end to his reign of terror.
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive analysis of Percy Wetmore's character and his role in The Green Mile. His cruel and sadistic behavior serves as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of treating all human beings with dignity and respect.