Essay #2: Wexford (A Portrait of Evil)
The character Wexford of the book Peace Breaks Out, is by no question an atypical
adolescent. He is different than the rest of his peers, Wexford is an evil villain. But, as well as
being evil he is also extremely bright, he goes about his business very smart and without having
do any of the dirty work. He is smarter than the average teenage boy. He is more mature and
more prepared to face the real world.
From the start of the book when the characters are first introduced to us it is evident that
Wexford is different from the other boys. When Eric Hochschwender was stating his opinion of
American History most of the other boys just let him say what he wants and even though they are
offended they keep it to themselves. Not Wexford he ignites what will become a never-ending
conflict between he and Hochschwender. Wexford challenges Eric's opinion and doesn't give
These conflicts continued everyday on every issue that arose. This is an example of how
always has to have his way, and if he doesn't get it at first he will not give up until he does. And
if some one happens to be in the way of what he is trying to accomplish he will by all means
necessary make sure that they do not remain there too long.
Wexford also differs from his peers in the way that he is not very interested in athletics.
He would much rather be doing more along the lines of reading, playing the piano, or writing
editorials for the school paper. In other words, he would rather be exercising his mind than his
body. This would be a problem do to the fact that every student that attended Devon was
required to participate in athletics each season. Although this rule had no exceptions Wexford
found a way around it. He told Pete Hallum and the other masters that he was on the golf team
...