The main character of The Jungle, Jurgis, is the only character to appear in every chapter. Although most of the action in the text is shown from his perspective, readers actually gain very little insight into Jurgis' innermost person. This does not mean, however, that as a character he is not a sufficient study. Indeed, because readers have no firsthand knowledge of Jurgis' thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and passions, he is quite different from most characters in modern novels — he is neither developed nor complex — but he is still worthy of analysis.
Sinclair primarily depicts Jurgis as a protagonist as defined by Emile Zola; that is, one who is the victim of chance and whose fate is determined by forces beyond his control. Because Emile Zola both created and mastered this type of fiction, the style is known as Zolaism (and is also called naturalism). At the end of the novel, however, Jurgis does experience a change, and becomes a dynamic character; one who is pro-active and embraces socialism as a means of escaping the drudgery of his existence.
From the onset, and throughout the entire text, Jurgis is shy and awkward at social functions. This is a mark of his staunch individualism, a trait simultaneously beneficial and harmful to him. Early on he is a strapping young man, full of vigor and life, and is able to carry himself through any adversity. This physical description provides more insight into his character because Jurgis experiences both a physical and emotional change. Gradually, the difficulties he encounters wear him down. In one sense, The Jungle is similar to a medieval morality play, and Jurgis is a contemporary "Everyman." The characters in morality plays were symbolic representations, used to illustrate an idea; Jurgis represents all immigrants. His experiences are typical of immigrants, and his struggles are their struggles. By presenting Jurgis in a sympathetic light, Sinclair enables readers to embrace all immigrants. The Jungle reveals the problems that all immigrants and poor people suffer, and presents socialism as the solution.
