Why Was Augustus Waters Created In Fault In Our Stars

Hannah Arendt

2 min read

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30-11-2024

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John Green's The Fault in Our Stars captivated readers with its poignant portrayal of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters's relationship. But beyond the undeniable chemistry and heartbreaking narrative, Augustus's character serves a crucial purpose within the novel's larger themes. He's not simply a romantic interest; he's a catalyst for Hazel's growth and a powerful symbol of confronting mortality.

More Than Just a Love Interest

While the romance between Hazel and Augustus is central to the plot, Augustus isn't simply there to provide a fairytale ending. His presence challenges Hazel's ingrained pessimism and fear of burdening others. Before meeting Augustus, Hazel is largely resigned to her fate, accepting her illness and isolating herself to avoid causing pain. Augustus, with his own experiences battling cancer, actively combats this mindset. He pushes Hazel to confront her fears and embrace life, even in the face of death.

A Catalyst for Growth

Augustus's impact isn't solely emotional. He serves as a crucial catalyst in Hazel's personal journey. His unwavering optimism and determination force her to re-evaluate her perception of life and death. He encourages her to engage more fully with the world, her family, and her own mortality, ultimately leading to significant personal growth.

A Symbol of Confronting Mortality

Augustus's character also functions as a powerful symbol within the novel's exploration of mortality. His illness, like Hazel's, is a constant reminder of life's fragility. However, unlike Hazel's initial resignation, Augustus embodies a defiant spirit in the face of death. He chooses to live fully and meaningfully, leaving a lasting impact on those around him even after his passing.

The Significance of His Death

Augustus's death, while devastating, is not presented as a tragic ending but rather as a poignant testament to the importance of living a life filled with love, purpose, and meaning. His passing underscores the novel's central theme: the significance of human connection and the beauty of life even in the face of its inevitable end. This understanding ultimately empowers Hazel to move forward, cherishing the memories and lessons learned from their relationship.

Conclusion: A Necessary Character

In conclusion, Augustus Waters's creation in The Fault in Our Stars was far from arbitrary. He's not just a romantic lead; he's a deeply significant character who propels the narrative, drives Hazel's personal growth, and powerfully embodies the novel's central themes of mortality, love, and the importance of living fully. His role in the story enriches the narrative, leaving a lasting impact on both Hazel and the reader.