Did the central character experience an epiphany in this story - Essay Example

Through this protagonist, O’Connor poses a deep reflection about the misunderstanding people may have about their values but also warns about the danger of stereotyping others based on their social status or race. O’Connor’s “Revelation” contains great moral lessons that address the perception people have about their own values. Through Mrs. Turpin, the author exposes the conflict that exists between the assumptions they have about the expression of their Christian values in contrast to the reality.

Indeed, Mrs. Turpin’s deep conviction about these moral values she embodies makes her walk confidently into the waiting room and challenge the integrity of the others. The narrator informs: “The doctor’s waiting room, which was very small, was almost full when the Turpins entered and Mrs. Turpin who was large, made it look even smaller by her presence. She stood looming at the head of the magazine table set in the center” (O’Connor 341). This physical domination reflects the woman’s state of mind as she tries to overpower everybody by displaying her character and her values.

Her efforts to make a good impression on people and then convey her good manners and social standing make her always draw attention on her. Moreover, Mrs. Turpin’s judgmental attitude towards the others informs about her personality and the disdain she feels for them. The physical, behavioral and even social judgment she operates on those around her expresses her intolerance and lack of compassion. She severely scrutinizes those around her and measures their values and worth according to her own standards of success or behavior.

The narrator informs: “The girl’s face was blue with acne and Mrs. Turpin thought how pitiful it was to have a face like that at that age. She gave the girl friendly smile but the girl only scowled the harder” (O’Connor 343). This cruel thought about a teenager and this hypocritical