Jaws Character Profiles

From the movie Jaws, we learn from the characters, that not facing our fears can have a greater impact on the outcome of our situation than we expect. Larry Vaughn was one of the first characters to demonstrate the importance of facing our fears. He was so caught up in the issue of the town not making enough money, he refused to acknowledge the shark problem that they were having, and close the beach. Due to his actions, the lives of the townspeople were not only put in danger, but a child’s life was lost. When making his decision about keeping the beach open, he refused to consider how other people would be affected by his actions. Another character that refused to acknowledge their fears is Quint. Quint is an experienced shark hunter with …show more content…
As a result of his fear, Quint lets his decisions be clouded by lust for the shark's blood. This character flaw is most prominent when Quint decides to smash the radio while Brody attempts to call in for help. The flaw is also prominent when Quint is offered a life jacket he says “You know that was the time I was most frightened? Waitin' for my turn. I'll never put on a lifejacket again.” Not only did Quint’s fear of sharks add to his downfall, his fear of innovation played a huge part too. Partly because of his experience on the USS Indianapolis, Quint is hesitant towards innovation, constantly shutting down Hooper’s ideas and denying his help whenever offered. Quint takes every opportunity to insult Hooper and his scientific equipment, letting him know who's the authentic shark hunter and captain of the ship. Quint is so afraid of “innovation” coming between him getting the job done, he denies himself the ability. Quint affirms his stand on innovation when he says “Nowadays, these kids, they bring everything. Radar, sonar, electric toothbrushes. […] Yeah, that's real fine expensive gear you brought out here, Mr. …show more content…
Having the courage to face fears, was a common occurrence in the movie, one of the major characters to accomplish the feat is Major Barton. Major Barton plays an important part, because of his role as an Australian commanding officer. As a result of him being Australian, he is able to empathize with the men that he is sending into combat, or so he says cold-blooded murder. When Major Barton is asked by Colonel Robinson to send his men into battle he says, “Right, sir. Can't ask the men to do what I wouldn't do myself.” Facing his fears Major Barton walks alongside his men understanding they are being sent to certain death. Another character that proves to able to face their fears when confronted is Archy Hamilton. Archy Hamilton is an 18-year-old long distance runner, with an aspiration to be enrolled in the Australian light horse brigade. Like any other young man his age, the prospect of serving your country easily captivates Archy. However, Archy is particularly naive and oblivious to the reasons his country is going to war, or the consequences of said war. Due to this viewpoint when Archy is given the offer to become a runner and stay off the war zone he says, “I've come a long way, I can't miss out.” Facing his fears Archy chooses to go into battle despite being given the opportunity to become a runner. Frank Dunne was also