Dr. Jones Passage Analysis

I choose this passage because of its irony and the insight it gives into the aftereffects of the murders for the murderers themselves. This scene takes place after the murders; Perry and Dick have stopped for a picnic on their way to Mexico City. Although at the end of the novel Dr. Jones diagnoses both men with severe mental illness, Perry seems to show a small sign of sanity. This is because he starts to wonder if there is something wrong with him and Dick after they committed such a violent crime. While Dick denies the statement, Perry seems to be concerned and second guessing his wrongful act. Not only does Dick deny it but also without the slightest trace of doubt he says, “I’m normal”. Now both men are dangerous but the fact that Dick sees no fault in killing four innocent people is horrifying. He thinks that there is something wrong with Perry though which is true but he pretends as if Perry initiated the plan, so he is clearly unaware of his actions and the

Perry and Dick are now on trial and the time has come to decide their punishment. The jury has spoken and has requested the death penalty. Now the defense attorney has to be heard, Mr. Fleming. Fleming provides a powerful speech urging against the death penalty using the Bible as his backing. Essentially he says the body serves as a home for the soul and humans do not have the right to destroy that home. He began to expand his argument and he said that the law says that the taking of a human life is wrong yet goes ahead and sets the example. He concluded his testimony by saying the death penalty cheapens human life and gives rises to more murders. Overall his argument was interesting and his forgiving and gentle nature inspired me. Nonetheless, the men were ultimately sentenced to death and their crime was paid for. Mr. Fleming’s attitude about life was definitely one of a kind and something we need more