The Cycle of Violence

The Goldfinch

How violence begets violence and the characters' attempts to break free.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

Boris's Abusive Father Boris's Abusive Father from "The Goldfinch". A Violent Upbringing Beatings Boris is beaten by his father. He learns that violence is normal. Repeating the Pattern Boris becomes violent himself.

Boris's Abusive Father from "The Goldfinch". A Violent Upbringing Beatings Boris is beaten by his father. He learns that violence is normal. Repeating the Pattern Boris becomes violent himself.

A Violent Upbringing Beatings Boris is beaten by his father. He learns that violence is normal. Repeating the Pattern Boris becomes violent himself. He gets into fights and carries a gun. Breaking the Cycle Boris tries to be gentle with his own children. He wants to stop the cycle.

Theo's Violence in Amsterdam Theo's Violence in Amsterdam from "The Goldfinch". A Desperate Act Killing Martin Theo shoots Martin to save Boris. It is his first violent act. Aftermath Theo is traumatized. He never wanted to kill anyone.

Theo's Violence in Amsterdam from "The Goldfinch". A Desperate Act Killing Martin Theo shoots Martin to save Boris. It is his first violent act. Aftermath Theo is traumatized. He never wanted to kill anyone.

A Desperate Act Killing Martin Theo shoots Martin to save Boris. It is his first violent act. Aftermath Theo is traumatized. He never wanted to kill anyone. Reflection He realizes violence is sometimes necessary but always damaging.

Larry's Self-Destruction Larry's Self-Destruction from "The Goldfinch". A Violent End Alcoholism Larry's drinking leads to violence. He hits Theo and crashes his car. Death His violence turns inward.

Larry's Self-Destruction from "The Goldfinch". A Violent End Alcoholism Larry's drinking leads to violence. He hits Theo and crashes his car. Death His violence turns inward.

A Violent End Alcoholism Larry's drinking leads to violence. He hits Theo and crashes his car. Death His violence turns inward. He kills himself through reckless behavior. Legacy Theo inherits his father's temper but tries to control it.

Throughout Boris's childhood

Christmas Eve

Throughout his life