By smartcubs In O. Henry’s short story “The Last Leaf,” Johnsy (also known as Joanna) is a young artist who lives in Greenwich Village, New York City. Her character is central to the story, which explores themes of hope, despair, friendship, and the healing power of art.
Introduction
Johnsy is a struggling young artist who faces a severe battle with pneumonia. Her journey through illness and her ultimate recovery are deeply influenced by her outlook on life, her friendships, and the inspiring actions of those around her.
Appearance
- Physical Description: Johnsy is described as a young woman, though specific details about her appearance are limited. Her physical frailty during her illness is more prominently noted.
- Expression: Her expressions during her illness often convey despair and resignation, contrasting with the hope she regains later.
Personality Traits
- Artistic: Johnsy is passionate about her art, which is a significant part of her identity. Her dreams and aspirations are tied to her artistic pursuits.
- Imaginative: Her vivid imagination is highlighted in her fixation on the ivy leaves outside her window, which she links to her fate.
- Sensitive: Johnsy is highly sensitive, both emotionally and physically. Her illness exacerbates this sensitivity, leading her to a state of deep despair.
- Pessimistic (Initially): During her illness, Johnsy becomes pessimistic and loses the will to fight for her life, believing she will die when the last leaf falls from the vine outside her window.
- Resilient (Ultimately): Despite her initial despair, Johnsy’s character ultimately shows resilience and a renewed will to live, inspired by the selfless act of another.
Relationships
- Sue: Sue is Johnsy’s close friend and fellow artist. Their relationship is characterized by deep care and concern. Sue’s unwavering support and determination to help Johnsy recover play a crucial role in the story.
- Mr. Behrman: Mr. Behrman, an elderly artist who lives in the same building, becomes an unexpected savior for Johnsy. His actions demonstrate his silent affection and concern for the younger artists.
Actions and Motivations
- Fixation on the Ivy Leaves: Johnsy’s belief that she will die when the last leaf falls represents her loss of hope and surrender to illness. This fixation symbolizes her struggle between life and death.
- Renewed Hope: The appearance of the last leaf, painted by Mr. Behrman, reignites Johnsy’s hope and desire to live. This turning point showcases the impact of hope and the power of selfless acts.
Key Moments
- Falling Ill: Johnsy’s battle with pneumonia sets the stage for her emotional and physical struggle. Her condition worsens as she becomes increasingly despondent.
- Counting Leaves: Johnsy’s obsession with counting the ivy leaves marks her deepening despair and the loss of her will to live.
- The Last Leaf: The pivotal moment comes when Johnsy awakens to find the last leaf still clinging to the vine, not knowing it is a painting. This moment restores her faith and desire to fight her illness.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths:
- Artistic Talent: Johnsy’s passion and talent for art are her strengths, giving her purpose and identity.
- Resilience: Her ultimate ability to regain hope and fight her illness showcases her inner strength.
- Weaknesses:
- Pessimism: Her initial pessimism and loss of will are significant weaknesses that hinder her recovery.
- Dependency on External Factors: Johnsy’s belief in the ivy leaves’ connection to her fate shows her dependence on external factors for her mental state.
Johnsy’s character in “The Last Leaf” evolves from a state of hopelessness to one of renewed hope and resilience. Her journey highlights the importance of friendship, the power of art, and the impact of selfless acts on human life. Through her character, O. Henry illustrates how even the most fragile individuals can find strength and inspiration in the kindness and creativity of others.