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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Chapter 2: Johnny Nolan
Explanation and Analysis—Boot-Blacking:
Dick's occupation at the beginning of the novel, boot-blacking, is a difficult job that doesn't confer much status in his society. The novel's central question is how Dick can trade this job for a more lucrative professional one. Yet Alger speaks positively of boot-blacking and uses it as a motif to express the importance of traits like hard work, honesty, and humility. This pattern is evident from the beginning of the novel. In explaining the differences between Dick and Johnny Nolan, Alger writes:
Now, in the boot-blacking business, as well as in higher avocations, the same rule prevails, that energy and industry are rewarded, and indolence suffers.
Related Themes:
Chapter 6: Up Broadway to Madison Square
Explanation and Analysis—Respectability:
When Dick meets Frank and Mr. Whitney early in the novel, he glimpses the affluent, privileged, and orderly life of the upper class—a mode of living that can be summed up in the word "respectability." Recurring throughout the novel as an aspiration for Dick and a reality for his wealthier patrons, respectability forms a motif that defines Dick's journey of self-improvement.
While Alger uses the word "respectable" from the beginning of the novel, the idea of respectability is first developed by Frank, who tells Dick during their tour of New York in Chapter 6 that:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"If you’ll try to be somebody, and grow up into a respectable member of society, you will."
Related Themes:
Chapter 10: Introduces a Victim of Misplaced Confidence
Explanation and Analysis—Grand Buildings:
Throughout Ragged Dick, Manhattan's many grand buildings serve as a motif illuminating Dick's steady trajectory out of poverty and towards respectability. As a homeless boot black in Lower Manhattan, Dick sleeps on the streets every night. But he lives among some of the most important business and financial buildings in the city, as becomes evident when he takes Frank on a tour:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“What is that large marble building?” asked Frank, pointing to a massive structure on the corner of Wall and Nassau Streets [...]
“That’s the Custom House,” said Dick.
Related Themes:
Chapter 11: Dick as Detective
Explanation and Analysis—Respectability:
When Dick meets Frank and Mr. Whitney early in the novel, he glimpses the affluent, privileged, and orderly life of the upper class—a mode of living that can be summed up in the word "respectability." Recurring throughout the novel as an aspiration for Dick and a reality for his wealthier patrons, respectability forms a motif that defines Dick's journey of self-improvement.
While Alger uses the word "respectable" from the beginning of the novel, the idea of respectability is first developed by Frank, who tells Dick during their tour of New York in Chapter 6 that:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"If you’ll try to be somebody, and grow up into a respectable member of society, you will."
Related Themes:
Chapter 13: Mickey Maguire
Explanation and Analysis—Washing Up:
Throughout Ragged Dick, the motif of washing up emphasizes Dick's increasing focus on hygiene and his broader personal transformation. As Dick begins his social and economic ascent, one of the first things he learns to do is present himself in a "respectable" manner. This involves obtaining a new suit from Frank but also bathing frequently—a task that is impossible while he lives on the streets; in fact, it's still difficult even after he rents a room. Of Dick's first attempts to wash up in his new room in Mott Street, Alger writes:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Even now he found himself unable to arrange his dishevelled locks, having neither comb nor brush. He determined to purchase a comb, at least, as soon as possible. [...] Meanwhile he combed his hair with his fingers as well as he could, though the result was not quite so satisfactory as it might have been.
Related Themes:
Chapter 17: Dick’s First Appearance in Society
Explanation and Analysis—Personal Appearances:
Personal appearances, good and bad, form a motif that recurs throughout Ragged Dick. In general, good characters have pleasant or appealing physical appearances, while the novel's villains look shifty or untrustworthy. This is especially true of Dick, whose natural good looks Alger praises frequently:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Dick was a very good-looking boy, especially now since he kept his face clean. He had a frank, honest expression, which generally won its way to the favor of those with whom he came in contact.
Related Themes:
