The Good Earth: Wang Lung - A Man Of Determination And Loyalty

The Good Earth: Wang Lung - A Man of Determination and Loyalty

Pearl S. Buck shows her readers the many faces of Wang Lung in her book,

The Good Earth. Wang Lung is a rice farmer who gains all his wealth through the land. He struggles to move from poverty to a well respected wealthy man. Wang

Lungs character portrays a man's unselfishness, determination, and loyalty towards his family and friends.

Wang Lung's caring and generous nature towards his family and friends make him a well-liked person. During the drought Wang Lung feeds the family members first and leaves what little is left for himself. Though it is hard,

Wang Lung manages to survive the drought. He feeds the family small portions of rice which are left over from the season. When the food runs out and the furniture and equipment are sold, Wang Lung decides to make a harsh decision.

He decides to lock up and move south. There he hopes to find food and money for his family. After a 100 mile train ride, they end up in the south. Wang Lung is delighted to find rice for only a penny. While Wang Lung uses the ricksha to make money for rice, the family eats and begins to regain strength. When all is well, Wang Lung returns home to start his life all over.

Also during the drought Wang Lung spares food and money for his uncle, uncles's wife and their son. The uncle is a poor old gambler who would rather gamble his money away than to spend it on his family. During the drought he shows up in Wang Lung's fields begging for money. At first Wang Lung refuses to dish out money to his uncle. After a time of arguementing Wang Lung finally gives in. He states " 'It is cutting my flesh out to give to him and for nothing except that we are of a blood' ".(46) Wang Lung is upset that he had to give money to his uncle. Wang Lung didn't have to give to his uncle, but by doing so he kept peace with his him.

Wang Lung's persistence to succeed carries him to a higher level in life.

With such an attitude he is determined to regain his wealth after the drought.

On the way home from down south, Wang Lung used the gold he had taken from the man in the Great House to buy things for the land. He bought seeds to plant and a new beast to plow the fields. Wang Lung figures this will give him what he