Foil

Character Role Analysis

John Ames/Edward Ames

John Ames's brother Edward is wicked smart, well studied, and wise to the world. He also becomes an atheist, which causes a lot of friction in the family. Ames and Edward are not terribly different, though. While Ames keeps the faith, he reads all the books Edward does—including those titles critical of religion and faith. Ames takes a liking to the philosopher Feuerbach, and it's Edward who tells him not to read it in sight of Mom and Dad.

For Ames, Edward is a constant measure of his thinking and preaching. He doesn't expect his brother would agree with his theology or his sermons, but he strives to think clearly and rationally within the religious sphere. If his brother wouldn't approve, Ames would at least like him to respect the seriousness of his intellect.