John Marvel, Assistant

"John Marvel, Assistant" by Thomas Nelson Page is a story set in the early 1900s about a young college student named John Marvel, who is self-centered and determined, as he experiences friendship, prejudice, and setbacks, while coping with the social expectations of the time. John's journey starts with reflecting on his upbringing and his family history, which sets the stage for his development during college. The story's central conflict appears when John struggles to connect with his Jewish roommate, Wolffert, who faces prejudice. John's interactions with Wolffert show the challenges of identity, bias, and the struggles of personal growth. The novel explores John's recognition of his faults and the possibility of overcoming them through his relationships and experiences.