Character Analysis: One Day In The Life Of Ivan Denisovich

“Courage is not the absence of fear, but the acquired ability to move beyond fear.” This statement is exemplified in One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, because the main character, Ivan Denisovich, is a middle-aged, Soviet prisoner in the infamous Gulag, struggling to persevere throughout the day-to-day challenges presented as a result of confinement in a prison camp. This situation requires him to stay brave under threats, not by fearing nothing, but by going past the feelings of being scared. Ivan Denisovich shows courage during the novel as, under inhumane conditions, he: remains the will to live, assists his fellow inmates, and completes thorough work at the Gulag. Firstly, Ivan Denisovich continues to struggle for survival while being in a concentration camp. For example, “This morning [Denisovich] economized. Since he hadn’t returned to the barracks he hadn’t …show more content…
For example: “‘Here you are, Alyosha,” said Shukov, and handed him a biscuit. Aloysha smiled. ‘Thank you. But you’ve got nothing yourself.’ ‘Eat it’’ (p.166). This passage, showing Denisovich’s generosity, depicts courage as Denisovich gives Aloysha his last piece of food. This proves Denisovich’s audacity, as it takes bravery to help someone knowing it will hurt you. Earlier in the novel, when getting a package for a prisoner, “[Denisovich] gave him some advice: Sit here till the last moment … I’ll go out first and I’ll be back first” (p. 156). Denisovich is offering aid to this prisoner because packages in the Gulag are often raided by the other inmates. The prisoner Denisovich is helping is not a particularly good friend of his, so it shows courage to assist someone and do the right action, especially if it is for just an acquaintance. Even in inhumane conditions, Ivan Denisovich has the compassion for others to give up time to lift up those around