Foil Characters In The Help

v\Woven within literature are techniques implemented to stimulate the readers’ imagination into developing its vibrant world and theme. An example are contrasting characters which emphasize each other’s characteristics, developing the story. Foil characters are utilized in Kathryn Stockett’s novel, The Help, with the characters of Celia and Hilly highlighting the theme kindness prevails.
Hilly was raised in an affluent family and remained powerful as she grew up, marrying a politician and becoming the Junior League President. As a result, she became pompous and believed she could abuse her position and manipulate others to comply with her demands. Her arrogance is displayed early on when she threatens Skeeter’s position at the League after Skeeter questions her bathroom initiative, “I don’t think you ought to be joking around about the colored situation. Not if you want to stay on as editor of the League, Skeeter Phelan” (10). Hilly’s threat towards Skeeter demonstrates her desperation to remain in power and

Eventually, she left this environment and found positive influences, like Johnny, which developed her kind personality. Despite her triumph, she is insecure because she lacks domestic skills, this becomes the reason she refuses to tell Johnny about Minny, “Please, I want him to think I can do it on my own. I want him to think I’m… worth the trouble” (44). Furthermore, she strives to please others because of her lack of confidence. She also assumes the best in others, shown when Celia concludes that Minny’s warning about Hilly’s animosity towards her is a chance at reconciliation, “Well, no wonder she can’t stand me!..Well, I’m just going to have to explain it to Hilly, let her know I am not a boyfriend stealer. In fact, I’ll tell Hilly on Friday night, when I see her at the Benefit” (373). Moreover, Celia’s experiences allow her to sympathize with people, leading to her benevolence and