Book 1

            In book one of “Cry the Beloved Country” there are many themes. There is one in particular that stands out. The main theme of book one is being a father to everyone. In the book Stephen acts like a father to his sister and his son, Absalom. He seems to be the male role model for everyone. He plays a big role in this book. Also he is the person that keeps everyone in their place and together. The theme of the book is parenting.

            To start off, Stephen first helped his sister. As it says in the book on page 61 “He goes to her and lifts her from the floor to the chair. Inarticulately he strokes her face, his heart filled with pity.” This shows how he will be there with here even after she has done to shame the family. On page 64 it says “Although his money was little, he bought her a red dress and a white thing they called a turban for her head.” This shows how he will spend his last on his family. Also it shows much his family is important to him. This shows a good an example of the theme of this book.

            Next, Stephen helps his son baby mother. He didn’t even know here that much but he helped her anyways. On page 148 it say “I shall come for you when everything is ready for the marriage. Shall I find you a place near me? He walked on like a man from whom a pain has lifted a little, not altogether, but a little.”  This shows how he is concerned about the girl. He wants her to be closer to him, so she want be by herself. He is basically trying to take care of her for his son. He is stepping up and is playing a father role.

            Last, Stephan is trying to help his son. On page 133 it says “Well, well, he says, we must go at once and see a lawyer.” He knew that his son shot the man but he still is trying to help him the best way he can. His own brother is telling him it is no use of getting a lawyer but he doesn’t listen to the negative. He is trying to do everything he can for his son even if he has to ask for help from others.

In conclusion, the theme of this book is good parenting. Though out book one it’s how Stephen is a great parent not only to his own child but to others that do not belong to him. Stephen rescued his sister and her son from a bad environment. Also he is trying to help his son with a crime he have done. Also he helps his son baby mother. He is playing many father roles in this book. He is a very good person. He is the main part of the theme. He has a big role in the book. Stephan is the theme.