"The Waiting" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "The Waiting" by Suzanne Woods Fisher, the characters play various roles that contribute to the overall development and progression of the story. Jorie King serves as the protagonist, driving the plot forward with her personal journey and challenges. Caleb Zook takes on the role of the love interest, adding a romantic element to the narrative.

Marian Fisher and Luke Schrock serve as supporting characters, providing guidance, support, and insight to the protagonist. Samuel King, Jorie's father-in-law, takes on the role of the antagonist, creating conflict and tension within the story. Anna Mae and Martha also play supporting roles, offering friendship and advice to Jorie.

Character Descriptions

• Jorie King: Jorie is a young, resilient Amish woman who has experienced great loss in her life. She has striking brown eyes, chestnut hair, and a determined spirit. Despite her challenges, she possesses a quiet strength that allows her to navigate through difficult situations.
• Caleb Zook: Caleb is a kind-hearted and compassionate Amish man, known for his easygoing nature and genuine smile. He has captivating blue eyes and sandy blond hair that falls in soft waves. His presence brings a sense of peace and stability to Jorie's life.
• Marian Fisher: Marian is a wise and nurturing older woman in the Amish community. She has silver-gray hair and gentle eyes that reflect her caring nature. Marian serves as a mentor to Jorie, offering guidance and support as she faces life's trials.
• Luke Schrock: Luke is a close friend of Jorie and Caleb. He has a tall and strong build, with a thick beard and a friendly smile. Luke is known for his reliability and steadfastness, always ready to lend a helping hand when needed.
• Samuel King: Samuel is Jorie's father-in-law and the main source of conflict in the story. He has a stern and rigid demeanor, with deep-set eyes that reflect his strict beliefs. Samuel's actions and decisions create tension and challenges for Jorie throughout the narrative.
• Anna Mae: Anna Mae is a kind-hearted and compassionate Amish woman who becomes a close friend to Jorie. She has a warm smile and gentle features, always ready to offer a listening ear and a comforting presence.
• Martha: Martha is a wise and respected member of the Amish community. She has silver-streaked hair and a calm demeanor. Martha provides guidance and wisdom to Jorie as she makes important decisions in her life.

Character Traits

• Jorie King: Determined, resilient, courageous, compassionate, independent.
• Caleb Zook: Kind-hearted, compassionate, patient, loyal, understanding.
• Marian Fisher: Wise, nurturing, supportive, empathetic, patient.
• Luke Schrock: Reliable, steadfast, helpful, friendly, dependable.
• Samuel King: Stern, rigid, controlling, traditional, judgmental.
• Anna Mae: Kind-hearted, compassionate, empathetic, loyal, gentle.
• Martha: Wise, respected, calm, patient, knowledgeable.

Character Background

• Jorie King: Jorie grew up in an Amish community and married Samuel King's son, but tragically lost her husband and young son in a car accident. After the accident, she moved to live with her parents and struggled to find her place in the community again.
• Caleb Zook: Caleb was born and raised in the Amish community and has always been known for his gentle and caring nature. He has a close relationship with his family and his faith plays a significant role in his life.
• Marian Fisher: Marian has lived in the Amish community for many years and has experienced the joys and challenges of life. She has faced loss and heartache but has grown wise and compassionate through her experiences.
• Luke Schrock: Luke has been friends with Jorie and Caleb since childhood. He has a deep understanding of the Amish way of life and is always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.
• Samuel King: Samuel is a devout Amish man who strongly believes in the traditions and rules of the community. He can be rigid and controlling, often making decisions based on his own beliefs rather than considering the feelings of others.
• Anna Mae: Anna Mae is a kind-hearted and empathetic member of the Amish community. She is always willing to help others and provides a listening ear for those in need.
• Martha: Martha is a respected member of the Amish community, known for her wisdom and guidance. She has experienced many seasons of life and offers valuable advice to those who seek it.

Character Arcs

• Jorie King: Jorie's character arc involves finding her strength and identity after facing immense loss. Throughout the story, she learns to overcome her fears, rediscover her faith, and embrace new opportunities for love and happiness.
• Caleb Zook: Caleb's character arc revolves around his growing love for Jorie and his willingness to support her through her challenges. He learns to be patient and understanding, realizing the importance of trusting in God's plan.
• Marian Fisher: Marian's character arc centers on her role as a mentor to Jorie. She provides guidance and support, helping Jorie navigate through difficult decisions and find her own path in life.
• Luke Schrock: Luke's character arc is primarily a supportive one, as he remains a steadfast friend to Jorie and Caleb. He offers advice, encouragement, and assistance whenever they need it.
• Samuel King: Samuel's character arc involves a gradual realization of the importance of love and forgiveness. As the story progresses, he begins to question his rigid beliefs and consider the impact of his actions on others.
• Anna Mae: Anna Mae's character arc focuses on her friendship with Jorie and the support she provides during Jorie's journey of healing and self-discovery.
• Martha: Martha's character arc is centered around her role as a wise and respected member of the community. She continues to offer guidance and support to those who seek her counsel.

Relationships

• Jorie and Caleb: Jorie and Caleb's relationship evolves from friendship to a deep and meaningful romantic connection. They support and encourage each other, providing strength and comfort during difficult times.
• Jorie and Marian: Jorie and Marian share a close bond, with Marian serving as a mentor and mother figure to Jorie. Marian's wisdom and guidance help Jorie navigate through challenging situations.
• Jorie and Luke: Jorie and Luke have a long-standing friendship, and Luke provides unwavering support to Jorie and Caleb throughout their journey. He offers guidance and a listening ear when they need it most.
• Jorie and Samuel: Jorie and Samuel's relationship is fraught with tension and conflict. Samuel's rigid beliefs and actions create obstacles for Jorie as she seeks to move forward with her life.
• Jorie and Anna Mae: Jorie and Anna Mae develop a deep friendship, providing each other with support and understanding. They offer each other a sense of belonging and acceptance.
• Jorie and Martha: Jorie seeks guidance from Martha, who provides her with wisdom and advice. Martha's calm presence and knowledge of the community help Jorie make important decisions.

In "The Waiting," Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life a cast of well-developed characters, each playing a crucial role in the story's progression. Through their interactions, growth, and relationships, the characters create a rich and engaging narrative that explores themes of loss, love, and the power of community.