Boxer And Saints Analysis

The Protagonists Differences of Love and Correlation of Isolation The themes of love and isolation are common throughout many literary works, but perhaps usually don’t come to mind when reading graphic novels. In Boxers & Saints, by Gene Luen Yang, main characters Bao and Four-Girl are motivated by separate goals: Bao is focused on ridding foreign devils from China, while Four-Girl aspires to become one. Their goals differ, but nonetheless, both are driven by a love for what they do—whether they fully embrace it or not. In addition, both are motivated by their pasts which serves as a source for their actions. In both graphic novels, the protagonists are first driven as a result of contention with members of their family. Growing up, Bao did not earn respect and attention from his father. …show more content…
Red Lantern says: “You know, there are quite a few beauties in your village,” while Bao replies “ I never noticed” (Boxers 58). In comparison, Vibiana doesn’t seek love with someone else either. Her companion Kong says: “What better way to show my gratitude to God than by bringing new life into the world as a father. Vibiana . . . I think you’re right! Let’s get married!” (Saints 101). Vibiana soundly rejects Kong’s proposal, and justifies her opinion by stating how she needed to be ready for an attack on the Christians she was protecting. Because of this, Vibiana clearly emphasizes that protecting herself and fellow Christians takes superiority above love with Kong. Interestingly enough, it is ironic that Bao’s and Vibiana’s journeys intersect at the end of Boxers and Saints. The author’s decision to intersect their journeys was smart, considering that their beliefs are exact opposites. Though their beliefs and motivations contradict, Bao and Vibiana are both isolated by the fact that they choose not to seek love. But, that is by their choosing—both do acknowledge that their passions supersede anything else, particularly