Foil

Character Role Analysis

Ruth Younger and Walter Younger

Many of the characters serve as a contrast to Walter’s character, but we wanted to roll with Ruth Younger. Whereas Walter dreams big of money, hardworking Ruth doesn’t ask for much. We see her constantly cleaning and working in the house – occupations which Walter never engages in. While Ruth constantly supports the other members of her family and rarely, if ever, confronts anyone, Walter comes across as moody and confrontational throughout the play. As the couple embodies gender opposites, they also embody character opposites.