Dede Antanas Character Analysis
Jurgis’s father, Dede Antanas, is an old immigrant who needed to work to support his family. He is ready to put in hard physical labor when clearly his advancing age does not allow it. He believes “he is as lively as any boy” (36). This brings forth Antanas’ hopes and spirit to build a better life for his family, similar to millions of young, immigrant workers. He faces a lot of trouble finding work as there is intense competition amongst immigrant labor in the meat packing industry. His old age puts him at a disadvantage. When he finally does get an offer for a job for floor mopping, he is asked to give 1/3 of his earnings to the man who arranges the job. This represents the widespread corruption propagated by capitalism. In addition, Antanas