Foil

Character Role Analysis

Johnny Tremain and Rab Silsbee

Rab also serves as a foil to Johnny. Foils are characters whose contrasting features tell us something about both characters. Physically, Johnny is wiry and blond, while Rab is solidly build and dark-haired. Johnny tends to be quick on the emotional trigger, while it takes a lot to disturb Rab's calm. While Johnny finds Rab's emotional distance frustrating, Rab's mastery of his own feelings and actions gives Johnny something to reach toward—as he tries to be like Rab, he gains control over himself.