Jack Torrance Tragic Hero?

     The tragic hero is one of the most common archetypes in literature and film. In my opinion, a tragic hero is often the most interesting character in the story. Their flaws are what makes them so interesting. After all, it's their flaws that make characters seem more realistic. Jack Torrance has plenty of flaws, and he's plenty realistic.

      After a rough childhood, he was able to get a good education and make something of a name for himself. He had a good teaching job at a prestigious prep school, a blossoming writing career, and a loving young family. However, he had some deep seated problems rooted in his father's abuse during his childhood. Jack always had a harsh temper, and when he followed in his father's footsteps to become an alcoholic, his life began to deteriorate. He hurt his son Danny in a drunken rage which led to a near divorce from his wife. Later, and completely sober, he attacked a student who had slashed his tires. This led to the loss of his job, thus completing the downfall which is common for a tragic hero.

"I told you; no pickles on my sandwich..."



     Next, he took the job as the winter caretaker of an isolated colorado resort, bringing only his family. He hoped that this would be an opportunity to regain his stability, and finish a writing project. However, his old problems begin to resurface as the hotel works its way into his fragile psyche. After going on a rampage in hopes of murdering his family, Jack resurfaces for a moment, to say goodbye to his son, before dying.

     Looking at the story of Jack Torrance in The Shining, most of the elements of a tragic hero can be seen. High position (successful teacher), personality flaw (rage/ alcoholism), error in judgement (attacking the student), fall from grace (fired from teaching), isolation from society (job at Overlook), transformation into foil (the angry Jack takes over), and finally the tragic hero's death with honor (he overcomes the hotel's control momentarily). It's a pretty straightforward cycle, which can be seen throughout the book. The fact that he is relatable and is a "hero" of sorts makes his downfall and spiral into madness all the more emotional to read.