Kristin Fiore #22

Mrs. Palmiotto

Johnny Tremain Essay

March 15, 2004

“A Medical Change”

Have you ever wondered if a medical incident could influence your whole life? The book Johnny Tremain expresses that due to the community of Boston and the strict religious beliefs of the town, Johnny’s silversmith career ends when the option of medical attention becomes unattainable. Johnny, at a stand-still in his life, faces many life-changing choices.

Mrs. Lampham’s worry of what others’ believe causes her life-altering decision for Johnny to be well thought through. Cilla’s worry for Johnny’s health causes her to ask her mother, “…shall I run for Dr. Warren? No, no… wait, I’ve got to think, I don’t want any of them doctors to know he was breaking the Sabbath Day.” (p.41) The religious belief of the town inflicts upon Johnny’s welfare because his medical care cannot be given. Others’ opinions on Johnny working on the Sabbath Day effects Mrs. Lampham’s decision to go and get Dr. Warren. Johnny’s career could have been risked and the decision of his care can only be decided by Mrs. Lampham.

Johnny’s hand has grown to be totally unusable because of the little health care he receives. Cilla notices the obscurity of Johnny’s hand and tells him that, “the top of your hand, Johnny, your thumb and palm have grown together.” (p.35) Due to the conditions of Johnny working against the town’s law, his hand has grown to be disgustingly and seriously disfigured. Johnny must receive medical help as soon as possible, but in doing so he will reveal himself as breaking the Sabbath. Johnny, being concerned for his family, would never want to risk the high popular status in the towns’ eyes.

Johnny, not being an adult, influences himself to turn his boyish ways in to become a young man, although he hits many snags along the way. He finally gets the attention needed and his injured hand heals. He can no longer be a silversmith, but he realizes that his special talents can be put to better uses.