"Streets of Laredo" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "Streets of Laredo" by Larry McMurtry, the characters have distinct roles that drive the narrative forward. The protagonist, Woodrow Call, is a retired Texas Ranger, while Lorena Parker serves as the love interest. Joey Garza takes on the role of the antagonist, creating conflicts throughout the story. Pea Eye Parker acts as Call's loyal sidekick, and July Johnson is a lawman attempting to capture Joey. Elmira Johnson is July's wife, and Maria Garza is Joey's mother. Lastly, John Wesley Hardin is a notorious gunslinger who plays a significant role in the plot.

Character Descriptions

Woodrow Call (Protagonist)

Woodrow Call is a complex character who served as a Texas Ranger for many years. He is described as a stoic and hardened individual, known for his exceptional tracking and survival skills. Call is tall and lean, with a weathered face that reflects his years of experience. He often wears a distinctive ranger badge, symbolizing his dedication to justice.

Lorena Parker (Love Interest)

Lorena Parker is a beautiful and independent woman who captures the attention of both Woodrow Call and Joey Garza. She is a former prostitute who has managed to escape her past and build a new life for herself. Lorena is intelligent and resilient, with a strong sense of self. Her relationship with Call evolves throughout the story, adding depth to her character.

Joey Garza (Antagonist)

Joey Garza is a dangerous and unpredictable young man who becomes the primary antagonist of the story. He is a skilled gunman and notorious outlaw, feared by many. Joey is described as having piercing eyes and a charismatic presence. His violent tendencies and desire for power make him a formidable adversary for Woodrow Call and the other characters.

Pea Eye Parker (Sidekick)

Pea Eye Parker is Woodrow Call's trusted and loyal sidekick. He is a devoted friend and fellow Texas Ranger, always willing to support Call in his endeavors. Pea Eye is shorter in stature compared to Call but possesses a sharp wit and a good sense of humor. Despite his smaller size, he proves himself to be a capable and brave companion throughout the story.

July Johnson (Lawman)

July Johnson is a determined lawman who is tasked with capturing Joey Garza. He is depicted as a dedicated and honest man, committed to upholding justice. July is described as a tall and imposing figure, with a strong sense of duty. While he may lack the experience of Woodrow Call, he demonstrates his determination to bring Joey to justice.

Elmira Johnson (July's wife)

Elmira Johnson is July's supportive and caring wife. She provides a sense of stability and warmth to July's character. Elmira is depicted as a kind-hearted woman who understands the challenges her husband faces in his pursuit of justice. Her presence adds depth to July's character and showcases the importance of family in the story.

Maria Garza (Joey's mother)

Maria Garza is Joey's mother and plays a significant role in his life. She is a strong-willed and protective woman who loves her son deeply, despite his criminal activities. Maria's character highlights the complex dynamics of a mother's unconditional love and the lengths she is willing to go to protect her child.

John Wesley Hardin (Gunslinger)

John Wesley Hardin is a notorious gunslinger who becomes entangled in the story. He is a legendary figure known for his deadly accuracy and quick draw. Hardin's character adds an element of danger and intrigue to the narrative, as his reputation precedes him. His interactions with other characters reveal his cunning and ruthless nature.

Character Traits

Character Background

Woodrow Call's character is well-established in the prequel, "Lonesome Dove," where he is introduced as a Texas Ranger alongside his partner, Augustus McCrae. Lorena Parker's background is revealed through her transition from a prostitute to a respected member of society. Joey Garza's troubled upbringing and involvement in criminal activities stem from a combination of circumstances and personal choices. Pea Eye Parker's background is largely intertwined with Woodrow Call's, as they have shared many adventures as Texas Rangers. July Johnson's background as a lawman and his determination to prove himself underpins his character development. Elmira Johnson's background as July's wife provides insight into their relationship and the challenges they face. Maria Garza's background as Joey's mother showcases her love for her son and the lengths she will go to protect him. John Wesley Hardin's background as a notorious gunslinger contributes to his reputation and the danger he poses to other characters.

Character Arcs

Woodrow Call's character arc revolves around his transition from an active Texas Ranger to a retired, somewhat disillusioned individual. Throughout the story, he grapples with the challenges of aging and his desire to maintain justice in a changing world.

Lorena Parker's character arc focuses on her personal growth and search for identity beyond her past as a prostitute. She evolves from a vulnerable woman to a strong and independent individual, making her own choices and finding her place in society.

Joey Garza's character arc follows his descent into darkness and obsession with power. His violent nature and escalating crimes lead to his ultimate downfall.

Pea Eye Parker's character arc revolves around his unwavering loyalty to Woodrow Call and his transformation from a follower to a more independent individual. He becomes more assertive and self-reliant throughout the story.

July Johnson's character arc centers around his journey to prove himself as a capable lawman. He faces various challenges, both internal and external, throughout the story, ultimately shaping his growth and development.

Elmira Johnson's character arc is tied to her role as July's wife and her unwavering support for him. She provides stability and strength, contributing to her own personal growth as she faces the hardships of their circumstances.

Maria Garza's character arc showcases her fierce love for her son and her willingness to protect him at all costs. Her actions and decisions throughout the story highlight the lengths a mother will go to safeguard her child.

John Wesley Hardin's character arc delves into his reputation as a gunslinger and his interactions with other characters. He serves as a catalyst for conflict and adds a sense of danger to the narrative.

Relationships

Woodrow Call and Lorena Parker's relationship evolves from initial intrigue and curiosity to a deep connection based on mutual respect and understanding. Their bond is tested as they navigate the challenges of a complicated romance.

Woodrow Call and Joey Garza's relationship is one of adversaries, with Call determined to bring Garza to justice. Their interactions are fraught with tension, as Call represents the law and Garza represents lawlessness.

Pea Eye Parker and Woodrow Call's relationship is one of friendship and camaraderie, built on years of shared experiences as Texas Rangers. Pea Eye's loyalty and support for Call are unwavering throughout the story.

July Johnson and Woodrow Call's relationship is one of professional rivalry and mutual respect. July looks up to Call's experience and seeks his advice, even as he strives to prove himself as a capable lawman.

Elmira Johnson and July Johnson's relationship is one of love and support. Elmira stands by her husband's side, providing emotional strength and stability in the face of adversity.

Maria Garza's relationship with Joey Garza is one of a protective mother and troubled son. She loves him fiercely and will do whatever it takes to keep him safe, even if it means enabling his criminal activities.

John Wesley Hardin's relationships with other characters are marked by their fear and respect for his reputation as a gunslinger. His interactions add tension and danger to the story, as others navigate their relationships with him cautiously.

In conclusion, "Streets of Laredo" by Larry McMurtry presents a diverse range of characters with distinct roles, traits, backgrounds, and relationships. Woodrow Call serves as the protagonist, Lorena Parker as the love interest, and Joey Garza as the primary antagonist. Through their character arcs and relationships, the story explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the complexities of human nature.