Dick Hollarann As A Hero In The Shining By Stephen King

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Stephen King's novel The Shining tells of the horrors that face the Torrence family when they spend a winter in the haunted Overlook Hotel. Antagonist Jack Torrence, a recovering alcoholic with violent tendencies when under the influence, desperately searches for a job after losing his position as an English teacher at a local high school. Committed to proving to his wife Wendy and five-year-old son Danny that he has changed for the better, Jack agrees to work as the winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook. Though Jack and Wendy are unaware that the Overlook is haunted, Danny knows better. Dick Hollorann, the chef at the Overlook during its busy season, calls Danny's ability to see what others don't "the shining". He also tells Danny to send him a psychic message if things start going haywire while Danny and his family stay there. Jack eventually goes mad, possessed by the hotel, goes on a mission to kill Wendy and capture Danny. Danny calls for Hollarann who instantly comes to the rescue. The novel ends with Wendy, Danny and Hollarann escaping the hotel just before it explodes with Jack in it. Despite Dick Hollarann's absence for a large portion of the novel, he possesses various qualities which qualify him to be characterized as a hero. Not only does Hollarann have a likable personality, he also adequately displays humility, selflessness and courage. …show more content…

He makes the Torrances, especially Danny, feel comfortable in their new environment. He shows the family around the kitchen, calming Wendy's nerves by telling her there is more than enough food to last the three of them for over a year, let alone a few of the winter months. Hollarann also addresses Wendy as "ma'am" and Jack as "sir". This shows Hollarann has respect for others and does not consider himself above the Torrances. Hollarann also tells five-year-old Danny a secret of his own and offers his help if ever

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