Foil

Character Role Analysis

Otis

Miss Corrie's nephew Otis is the foil to Lucius. Though one year younger in age, he is already more familiar with the adult world of sex, greed, and corruption than Lucius is. In fact, Otis even plays a part in this world: he understands what goes on inside the brothel, well before Lucius can even make out the distinction between it and a boarding house. He capitalizes on the business by charging boys of the neighborhood to peep at his aunt working, and he even steals Minnie's gold tooth. These are all actions that Lucius chooses not to partake in, out of respect and reverence for others. Apparently Otis doesn't feel the same way.