Answer :
Final answer:
Les Goodman from The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street is depicted as a complex, round character who reflects the realistic and multifaceted nature of humanity, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating how stress and fear can lead to unexpected behavior.
Explanation:
Les Goodman in The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street is a prime example of a complex, round character, similar to what's discussed in Hurston's Spunk. Goodman's character traits reveal a man who is initially perceived as an ordinary neighbor but later becomes a suspect in the eyes of his community when unexplained events lead to paranoia and hysteria. His experiences illustrate how fear can alter perceptions and lead to unjust accusations, demonstrating Goodman's multidimensional nature. Les Goodman is not a hero or villain in the traditional sense; instead, he embodies the gray areas of human character, reacting in ways that are both understandable and tragically flawed due to the circumstances.
Goodman's notable qualities include his defensiveness under accusation and his eventual breakdown, which illustrates his vulnerability. These attributes make him a relatable and realistic character, representing more than just one dominant trait. His character challenges stereotypes by showing that people can act unexpectedly under stress, revealing our capability for both reason and irrationality. Through Goodman, the narrative demonstrates how good values like honesty and self-respect become blurred under the weight of collective fear and suspicion.
