By smartcubs The Intruder is a key character in the play “If I Were You” by Douglas James. He is a cunning and desperate criminal who invades the home of Gerrard, intending to kill him and assume his identity. The Intruder’s character is defined by his criminal mindset, deceptive nature, and ultimately, his vulnerability.
Physical Appearance
The Intruder’s physical appearance is typical of a hardened criminal:
- Age: Appears to be in his late twenties or early thirties.
- Build: Strong and athletic, indicating a life of physical activity.
- Clothing: Dresses in dark, inconspicuous clothes suitable for a burglar.
- Features: A rough and menacing appearance, with sharp eyes and a hardened expression.
Personality Traits
The Intruder’s personality is marked by several key traits:
- Cunning: He is highly cunning, devising a plan to kill Gerrard and take on his identity to escape the police.
- Desperation: His actions are driven by desperation to avoid being captured by the authorities.
- Deceptive: The Intruder is a master of deception, trying to manipulate Gerrard into giving him the information he needs.
- Ruthlessness: He shows no remorse or hesitation in his plan to kill Gerrard.
- Vulnerability: Despite his tough exterior, the Intruder’s vulnerability is revealed through his fear of being caught and his lack of a real plan beyond killing Gerrard.
Relationships
The Intruder’s interactions with others are limited but telling:
- Gerrard: His primary relationship in the play is with Gerrard, the man whose identity he plans to steal. Their interaction is a battle of wits, with the Intruder initially holding the upper hand.
- The Law: Although not directly shown, the Intruder’s relationship with law enforcement is significant. He is on the run and willing to go to extreme lengths to avoid capture.
Values and Beliefs
The Intruder’s values and beliefs are shaped by his criminal lifestyle:
- Survival: His primary value is survival, which drives him to concoct his elaborate plan.
- Mistrust: The Intruder exhibits a deep mistrust of others, particularly Gerrard, whom he sees as a mere obstacle to his freedom.
- Self-preservation: He believes in looking out for himself above all else, with little regard for the lives of others.
Summary of Key Traits
- Cunning and deceptive
- Desperate and ruthless
- Vulnerable beneath a tough exterior
- Focused on survival and self-preservation
The Intruder’s character is a complex blend of cunning and vulnerability. His desperate attempt to evade the law by assuming another man’s identity showcases his ruthlessness and deception, while his ultimate failure highlights the futility of his plans and the depth of his fear. Through the Intruder, the play explores themes of identity, survival, and the consequences of a life of crime.