the author introduces their Mann as a fires little old man how is this character trait illustrated in the story
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by O. Henry
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In the story "The Last Leaf," Behrman is described to be a fierce little old man who scoffs at the softness in anyone. Still he is seen to be the epitome of sacrifice. Explain.
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WILLIAM DELANEY eNotes educator | CERTIFIED EDUCATOR
O. Henry had to introduce Behrman to the reader and explain that he is a painter, but the author did not want to arouse any suspicion that Behrman might get the idea of painting an ivy leaf on the wall of the building next door in order to keep Johnsy alive. O. Henry solved this problem by creating some confusion about Behrman's character.
Behrman speaks broken English, so it is difficult to understand him.
Behrman is a heavy drinker of gin, which can and does make him somewhat befuddled and incoherent.
Behrman contradicts himself very conspicuously. For instance, he tells Sue that he will not pose for her as the old hermit, and then he says that he is ready to pose for her. "No, I will not bose as a model for your fool hermit-dunderhead." “Who said I will not bose? Go on. I come mit you. For half an hour I haf peen trying to say dot I am ready to bose."
Behrman is temperamental and changeable. This is undoubtedly part of his artistic temperament.
Behrman has not yet decided what he is going to do to help Johnsy during the scenes with Sue.