The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz By Mordecai

The novel “the Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz” written by Mordecai

Richler tells the story of a boy whose goal is to acquire land, success and

respect. His failed business endeavors did not lead him to the success he

had hoped, and additionally alienated him from those who had once trusted

and cared for him. Duddy is not only a self-made monster, but even more so

a product of his society. A combination of how his family raised him, his

schooling and environment, as well as his own personality and virtues

ultimately led to his downfall.

Quite possibly, Duddy’s family had the largest negative impact on his “apprenticeship”. His father who should have been a significant figure in his life after the death of his mother fell short

Duddy Kravitz was a student of Fletcher Field High. The school itself was something more of a concrete tenement “…five stories high, like the Style-Kraft building that flanked it on one side…there was little to distinguish this building from the others”.(10) The school and courtyard do not appear very lively nor unique like the schools of our era. The in-class environment influences Duddy as well. Mr. Macpherson, his teacher was one of the few teachers who were against strapping. The applause and admiration of Duddy’s peers fuel his desire to pull pranks, provoking Macpherson to strap Duddy even though he is against it. Duddy stated to his classmates. "Hey, look! Look, jerkos! Ten on each. Mac strapped me. Mac, of all people." (36) This obviously shows that he is no longer intimidated by the strap and could possibly in the future, be inclined to rebel against any authorities that try to impose corporal

With this in mind, Duddy is a self-made monster. Virtues turn into corrupted virtues as Duddy pursues his villainous quest to acquire land and respect. Duddy is very shrewd and cunning. Duddy defrauds stamp companies and sells stolen hockey sticks with the knowledge that minors cannot be sued in Canada. Duddy possesses qualities of manipulation and persuasion as well. He knows that minors cannot legally own land and thus uses Yvette to help him purchase the land. "The farmers would be wary of a young Jew, they might jack up prices or even refuse to sell, but another French-Canadian would not be suspect." Duddy chooses to use his virtues in a negative way to benefit himself, without a care of the well being of others. Despite all of the virtues Duddy posses, he also has characteristics and emotions which are present in nearly everyone. Everyone wants to feel loved and needed and admired. His misbehavior in class is done simply to gain power and admiration from his peers, even though it is resented by the teacher. It was obvious when the teacher told him “look here, Kravitz, you’re a brat and an exhibitionist.”(14) Duddy tries other methods of gaining power and respect by trying to look older."...his bony cheeks were criss-crossed with scratches as he shaved twice daily in his attempt himself and others to think that he is of great