Character Analysis of Gruesome Playground of Injuries

Subject and Section Professor’s Name Date Character Analysis of Dougie from "Gruesome Playground Injuries" by Rajiv Joseph * Character Autobiography 1 What does the playwright say about Dougie? The playwright Rajiv Joseph paints a picture of Doug as a character who is almost always on the receiving end of some form of harm and who seeks this harm, whether it is in the form of danger or harm. His injuries are as much a part of who he is as his personality and become a bond for him and Kayleen to rely upon. Such ego-destructive actions, as well as the wounds received, characterize Doug and serve as the basis for the play's plot and the detailed description of the protagonist's attitude toward pain, attention, and practical attachment. 2 What does Dougie say about himself? Positive Negative "I have a really high pain tolerance" (Joseph 12). "I am a freak" (Joseph 12). "I'm not afraid of getting hurt" (Joseph 13). "I attract trouble" (Joseph 13). In assessing Dougie, an element of pride and a degree of pessimism is boiling in him. He speaks of his high pain tolerance and fearlessness, and while he might consider such attributes as virtues, they are most undoubtedly questionable when practiced in the real world. However, he also defines himself as a "freak" and agrees with his fate of "finding trouble," which means that he is conscious of his anomalistic approach to getting hurt and its consequences in society. 3 What do other characters say about Dougie? Positive Negative "Kayleen: You're hurt again. Let me see" (Joseph 10). "Kayleen: You're a freak" (Joseph 13). As the two communicate, it becomes evident that the feelings that the character Kayleen has about Doug are a mix of concern and annoyance. Her affection for him is reflected in her words and actions, but she is also angry and says, "You are such a freak." This paints a picture that portrays Doug's effect on those around him in a rather complicated manner. Play Title: Gruesome Playground Injuries Year Written: 2009 Time of Action: The play spans 30 years, moving back and forth between different times in the lives of the two main characters, Kayleen and Doug. Character Name: Doug (Dougie) Age of Character and Birt...