George's ambition and desire to skip college in order to take over his uncle's farm suggest a certain practicality, although current thought might indicate that he is reaching for short-term goals at the expense of long-term preparation for a richer, more secure life. Later, the scenes before the wedding capture the immaturity of young grooms. Fortunately, George's fears of growing old are temporary. As soon as he sees Emily, he recognizes the strength of his love for her and willingly plunges into adulthood.
George's role in the last act is small, yet intensely effective. He has succeeded as a farmer. Coming at night to Emily's grave, he demonstrates his deep and sincere love for her. By throwing himself abjectly across the newly dug grave, he expresses without words his devotion to the woman who has been the center of his life.
George functions in the play as a representative American. In Act I, rather than create a distinct individual, Wilder spotlights traits characteristic of youth in general. Even as an adult, George is an ordinary man performing ordinary tasks. Yet, with one silent action, he rises to a respectable height in Act III by his moving response to Emily's death.
