The Scarlet Ibis

The Scarlet Ibis is a symbol for Doodle in the story "The Scarlet Ibis" by James Hurst. The first evidence of this is they both have unusual appearances. It tells us in the book that the Scarlet Ibis sat "on the top most branch a bird the size of a chicken with scarlet feathers and long legs...." P.423 This quote clearly shows that the Scarlet Ibis is very unique compared to other birds. Doodle is also unique "He seemed all head with a tiny body which was red and shrivelled like an old man." P.416 These are two pieces of evidence that show the Scarlet Ibis and Doodle both have very unusual appearances. In addition to that both the Scarlet Ibis and Doodle are fragile. This is proven for the Scarlet Ibis when they tell us in the story "The bird began to flutter, but his wings were uncoordinated, and amid much flapping and a spray of flying feathers, it tumbled down, bumping through the limbs of the bleeding tree..." P.423 The Scarlet Ibis is so fragile that when he franticly flapped a spray of flying feathers came off of him. Doodle is also fragile "The doctor had said that he mustn't get too excited, too hot, too cold, or too tired and that he must always be treated gently." P.417 This shows that there are so many things that's you have to be careful about with Doodle because he is so fragile. Last but not least the Scarlet Ibis and Doodle have both overcome obstacles in there lives. "A storm must have brought it here." P.424 This is telling us that the Scarlet Ibis flew in a storm and fought to stay alive and he succeeded. Doodle overcame an obstacle "After many weeks of practising, he stood alone for a few second. After he fell....." P.419 Doodle overcame not being able to stand up alone. He then went on to walking. The Scarlet Ibis and Doodle both overcame great obstacles in there life time. These are all great examples of why the Scarlet Ibis is a symbol for Doodle.