In the book, The Pearl, written by John Steinbeck, Kino is a poor pearl diver who stumbles on the Pearl of the World. Kino hopes the pearl will bring him good fortune, but little does he know the pearl will bring death: hardship, and sorrow. His behavior as he copes with the various experiences he has, reveals a great deal about Kino's character. Kino's actions throughout the story as a family man, a pearl diver, and a survivor provide keys to this understanding of Kino's character.
Kino is a great family man throughout the whole story. In the beginning of the story as Kino wakes up, the first thing he hears is the sweet Song of the Family. This shows how his family is important to him, and the family is the first thing he thinks about. As a father Kino always provides for his baby son, Coyotito. As great danger arrives, such as the scorpion, Kino smashes it with his foot saving Coyotito. This shows that Kino risks his own well-being for Coyotito. Even though Kino kills the scorpion it still stings Coyotito and causes the baby to become sick. As Kino finds the Pearl of the World, one of the first things Kino wants is to receive help from the doctor to cure Coyotito. In the novel the doctor only cares for the people that can pay him. Kino is also a good husband. Kino always provides for his wife, Juana. Meeting all her needs and caring for her. When Kino finds the pearl, to show his affection for Juana, Kino wants to get officially married in the church with her. At the end of the novel he shows his respect for her by walking side by side with her. Kino is also the protector of the family. When danger arrives he always shields them, risking his life for theirs. For example when the trackers follow Kino, he kills them to save his family.
Kino's whole life is pearl diving. Factors that influence his finding the Pearl of the World is his canoe, how he is taught to dive, and the pearl buyers.
