Table of ContentsBodyCharactersPlotThemesConclusionOrdinary People is a novel by Judith Guest that explores the challenges faced by an upper-middle-class family after the death of their eldest son in a boating accident. The novel addresses themes of grief, guilt, and the struggle to maintain a façade of normalcy in the face of tragedy. This essay will provide an analysis of ordinary people, examining the characters, plot, and themes of the novel. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned"?Get the original essayBodyCharactersThe characters in Ordinary People are complex and well-developed, each dealing with their own internal struggles. Conrad Jarrett, the protagonist, is a high-achieving student who is deeply affected by his brother's death and subsequent suicide attempt. Her parents, Calvin and Beth, also struggle to cope with their grief in different ways. Calvin seeks comfort in therapy, while Beth withdraws from her family and becomes emotionally distant. Berger, Conrad's psychiatrist, serves as a guiding figure for Conrad, helping him overcome his feelings of guilt and depression. Berger's unconventional methods and blunt honesty provide a refreshing contrast to the facade of normalcy the Jarrett family attempts to maintain. The plot of Ordinary People revolves around the aftermath of Buck's death and its impact on the Jarrett family. The novel begins with Conrad's release from a psychiatric hospital, following his suicide attempt. As the story unfolds, we see the strained relationships between the family members and how they try to cope with their grief. Conrad's struggle to come to terms with his survivor's guilt and repressed emotions is central to the plot. Her sessions with Dr. Berger help her confront her feelings and work toward healing. Meanwhile, Calvin and Beth's marriage is tested as they grapple with their own grief and the strain it puts on their relationship.ThemesOrdinary People addresses several themes, including the impact of trauma and the struggle for emotional authenticity. The novel explores the ways in which grief can manifest differently in different individuals and the consequences it has on mental health. Calvin's journey to confront his own emotions and Beth's refusal to acknowledge her grief highlight the complexity of the grieving process. The theme of the facade of normalcy is also prevalent throughout the novel. The Jarrett family attempts to maintain a sense of normalcy following Buck's death, but their efforts only exacerbate underlying problems within the family. The pressure to appear "normal" and the fear of confronting their true emotions ultimately strains the family dynamic. ConclusionOrdinary People is a poignant exploration of grief, guilt, and the complexities of family dynamics in the face of tragedy. Through its well-developed characters, gripping plot, and exploration of themes, the novel offers a powerful depiction of the human experience. Judith Guest's work provides a thought-provoking analysis of how individuals and families deal with the aftermath of trauma, and the impact this has on their emotional well-being. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a custom document now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay Overall, Ordinary People remains a timeless and impactful work of literature that continues to resonate with readers, providing insight..