"Make Way for Ducklings" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "Make Way for Ducklings" by Robert McCloskey, the main characters are Mr. Mallard and Mrs. Mallard, who are the protagonists. The ducklings, Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, and Quack, are supporting characters. The Boston Police and Boston Public also play significant supporting roles.

Character Descriptions

Mr. Mallard

Mr. Mallard is a brave and adventurous mallard duck with a green head and a yellow beak. He is a caring and protective father who takes his role seriously.

Mrs. Mallard

Mrs. Mallard is a loving and nurturing mother duck with a brown head and a white collar. She is devoted to her ducklings and always keeps them safe.

Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, and Quack

The seven ducklings are adorable and energetic. They have fuzzy yellow feathers and follow their parents wherever they go.

Boston Police

The Boston Police are uniformed officers who help the duck family cross busy streets and ensure their safety.

Boston Public

The Boston Public refers to the people of Boston who admire and support the duck family. They become invested in the welfare of the ducklings and cheer them on.

Character Traits

Mr. Mallard

• Brave
• Adventurous
• Protective
• Caring
• Responsible

Mrs. Mallard

• Nurturing
• Devoted
• Loving
• Protective
• Responsible

Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, and Quack

• Playful
• Energetic
• Curious
• Trusting
• Loyal

Boston Police

• Helpful
• Protective
• Responsible

Boston Public

• Supportive
• Protective
• Caring

Character Background

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are a pair of ducks who decide to make a nest in Boston's Public Garden. They choose a cozy spot on an island in the pond and lay their eggs. After the eggs hatch, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard become proud parents to seven adorable ducklings.

Character Arcs

Mr. Mallard

Mr. Mallard's character arc revolves around his role as a protective father. At the beginning of the story, he leads his family through many challenges, such as crossing busy streets and finding a safe place to live. He displays bravery and resourcefulness in ensuring the safety of his ducklings. By the end of the story, Mr. Mallard successfully guides his family to a peaceful and secure life on the Charles River.

Mrs. Mallard

Mrs. Mallard's character arc is focused on her role as a devoted mother. She is always there to care for her ducklings and keeps them close. Throughout the story, she demonstrates her nurturing nature and teaches her ducklings important life lessons. Mrs. Mallard's arc reaches its peak when she trusts Mr. Mallard's plan to move to the Charles River, showing her confidence in his leadership.

Ducklings

The ducklings have a collective character arc that portrays their growth and development. They start as small and dependent ducklings, following their parents' lead. However, as the story progresses, they become more independent and gain confidence in exploring their surroundings. By the end, they are capable of swimming together and finding their way safely.

Relationships

Mr. Mallard and Mrs. Mallard

Mr. Mallard and Mrs. Mallard have a strong and loving relationship. They work together as a team to protect and raise their ducklings. They trust each other's decisions and support one another throughout their journey.

Mr. Mallard and Ducklings

Mr. Mallard has a nurturing and protective relationship with his ducklings. He leads them and ensures their safety, teaching them important life skills along the way. The ducklings look up to him as their role model and follow him without hesitation.

Mrs. Mallard and Ducklings

Mrs. Mallard has a nurturing and loving relationship with her ducklings. She keeps them close to her and provides them with warmth, safety, and guidance. The ducklings feel secure in her presence and learn valuable lessons from her.

Ducklings and Boston Police

The Boston Police play a crucial role in the ducklings' journey. They guide the family across busy streets, ensuring their safety. The ducklings trust the Boston Police and follow their instructions.

Ducklings and Boston Public

The Boston Public becomes emotionally invested in the ducklings' well-being. They cheer for the duck family and offer support along their journey. The ducklings bring joy to the people of Boston, creating a warm and positive relationship.

In conclusion, "Make Way for Ducklings" by Robert McCloskey features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique traits and roles. The story showcases the strong bonds within the Mallard family and the support they receive from the Boston Police and Public. Through their character arcs, the Mallards and the ducklings grow, learn, and navigate the challenges they encounter, ultimately finding safety and happiness.