Character Sketch of Mourad from the Lesson “The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse”

Mourad is a young Armenian boy living in a close-knit rural community. The story is set in California, and Mourad’s character is deeply influenced by his cultural background, family values, and the unique dynamics of his community.

Physical Appearance: The story provides limited details about Mourad’s physical appearance, emphasizing more on his actions and the impact of his decisions on the narrative.

Personality Traits:

1. Adventurous and Daring: Mourad is characterized by his adventurous spirit and daring nature. He is willing to take risks and go to great lengths to correct what he perceives as a great injustice, even if it involves breaking societal norms or rules.
2. Sense of Justice: Mourad has a strong sense of justice. When he discovers that his family’s white horse has been stolen, he is determined to set things right and retrieve the horse, demonstrating a commitment to what he believes is morally correct.
3. Caring and Protective: While Mourad might appear bold and adventurous, he is also caring and protective, especially toward his family. His actions are driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love for his relatives.

Role in the Plot:

1. Central Driving Force: Mourad is the central driving force behind the plot. The entire story revolves around his determination to correct the perceived wrongdoing, leading to a series of events that capture the essence of justice, integrity, and the complexities of right and wrong.
2. Symbol of Cultural Values: As an Armenian boy, Mourad becomes a symbol of cultural values and traditions. The story subtly weaves in elements of Armenian identity and family bonds, adding depth to Mourad’s character and the overall narrative.

Interactions with Other Characters:

1. Interaction with Aram: Mourad’s interactions with Aram, his cousin and the story’s narrator, showcase the strong bond between the two characters. Aram’s admiration for Mourad and Mourad’s influence on Aram’s perception of right and wrong shape the story’s dynamics.
2. Encounters with Adults: Mourad’s encounters with adults, including his conversation with the shopkeeper about the stolen horse, reveal his assertiveness and ability to communicate effectively, even in challenging situations.

Conflict and Resolution:

1. The Stolen Horse: The central conflict revolves around the theft of Mourad’s family’s white horse. Mourad’s determination to retrieve the stolen horse sets the story in motion, creating tension and suspense as the narrative unfolds.
2. Resolution and Lessons Learned: The resolution of the conflict brings about important lessons. Mourad’s actions, though driven by a desire for justice, lead to a realization about the complexities of morality and the shades of gray that exist in determining right from wrong.

Symbolism:

1. The White Horse: Mourad’s family’s white horse serves as a symbolic element in the story. It represents purity, justice, and the pursuit of what is right. The horse becomes a focal point around which the themes of morality and personal responsibility are explored.

Cultural Context:

1. Armenian Identity: Mourad’s character is embedded in the cultural context of being Armenian. The story subtly explores aspects of Armenian identity, family traditions, and the values passed down through generations.

Conclusion:

Mourad in “The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse” is a dynamic character whose actions drive the narrative and encapsulate themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of right and wrong. His adventurous spirit, sense of justice, and cultural background make him a compelling figure in the story, leaving a lasting impression on readers as they reflect on the nuances of morality and personal responsibility.