Character Analysis
Jimmy Valentine / Ralph D. Spencer
Jimmy Valentine is a round, dynamic character. He is the protagonist of “A Retrieved Reformation”—a handsome man with connections in high places and a love of the finer things of life. He’s also a consummate criminal, a notorious safecracker and convicted felon whose life of crime is undone by unexpected love.
The third-person omniscient narrator first introduces “Valentine, 9762,” a convict working in the prison shoe-shop. Jimmy’s time in prison ends with a pardon from the governor. Once free, he quickly returns to his old ways, drawing the attention of the police detective who put him behind bars. Jimmy has a quick wit and a sense of ironic humor. When the warden refers to his arrest in Springfield, Jimmy is “blankly virtuous,” claiming, “Why, warden, I never was in Springfield in my life!” (1).
Jimmy’s custom set of burglar tools is a prized possession, and he carries them with him wherever he goes. He is also a fancy dresser, which earns him the nickname “Dandy Jim Valentine” (2) and the envy of people like the hotel clerk in Elmore, Arkansas. Jimmy’s tools and clothes thematically reflect Plus, gain access to 8,650+ more expert-written Study Guides. Including features:
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Related Titles
By O. Henry
