Most people encounter hardships in their lives. Whether there is a problem with money, family, or relationships, the majority of people overcome that problem. However in some cases, problems with money, family and relationships will take over. In Angela's Ashes, Frank McCourt does not let those problems take over though. Even as a child Frankie takes care of his family in his father's absence. Frank McCourt is a strong individual who survives all of the hardships and heartbreaks in his life by helping to support his family and thinking of others before himself.
Frank McCourt is a very passionate man. Throughout his whole life he is constantly looking after his family, putting them before himself. Even when he was very young and lived in America he looked after his little brothers. When he would have to play outside in the park for hours with his brothers on frigid winter days, he would find food and warmth for his siblings before he would even think of himself. Frank would go to any lengths to help his family. He would steal bread and milk from neighbor's doorsteps early in the morning to feed his loved ones.
Throughout the course of the novel, Frankie had some life threatening illnesses. He is put in the hospital more than once. Even though he is weak after these illnesses, he is still a great help to his family. He prays to St. Francis and he survives through his sicknesses. He does not wallow in his sickness or use it as an excuse. He is a strong man ready to work and support his family so they can survive.
Frankie is very independent. This was one personality trait that helped him overcome his hardships. When Frank's father was in America helping with the war, Frank took care of his family. He got a job even though this job almost made him go blind. When he got into a fight with his mother and moved into his uncle's house he took care of himself completely. He fed himself and occasionally his brothers joined him for a meal.