The Green Mile – Summary
The Green Mile, set in the 1930s, is narrated by Paul Edgecombe, a prison guard at Cold Mountain Penitentiary. The story alternates between Paul’s present-day life in a nursing home and his experiences on Death Row, nicknamed “The Green Mile” due to its green linoleum floor.
In 1932, John Coffey, a massive African American man, arrives on the Mile, convicted of raping and murdering two young white girls. Despite his intimidating size, Coffey is gentle and childlike, often weeping in his cell. Paul soon discovers that Coffey possesses extraordinary healing abilities, which he first demonstrates by curing Paul’s urinary tract infection.
The Green Mile houses other notable inmates, including Eduard “Del” Delacroix, a mild-mannered Frenchman with a pet mouse named Mr. Jingles, and William Wharton, a wild and dangerous criminal. Percy Wetmore, a sadistic guard who obtained his position through nepotism, creates tension among both inmates and staff.
As Paul witnesses Coffey’s miraculous healings, including saving Mr. Jingles from death, he becomes increasingly convinced of Coffey’s innocence. This belief is strengthened when Coffey heals the prison warden’s wife, Melinda, of a brain tumour. Paul and his fellow guards orchestrate a secret mission to smuggle Coffey out of prison for this purpose.
Paul’s investigation into Coffey’s case reveals that William Wharton was the actual perpetrator of the crime for which Coffey was convicted. However, due to the racial prejudices of the time, they are unable to prevent Coffey’s execution. Coffey, weary of the world’s cruelty and his ability to feel others’ pain, accepts his fate.
The novel explores themes of injustice, supernatural healing, and the moral complexities of capital punishment. It also delves into the lasting impact of these events on Paul, who finds himself cursed with longevity after being healed by Coffey, outliving his loved ones and grappling with the weight of his memories.
Key themes:
- Racial injustice in the American South
- Supernatural healing and its consequences
- Moral dilemmas surrounding capital punishment
- The burden of longevity and memory
- Compassion in the face of cruelty
Character Details
Paul Edgecombe
Paul is the primary narrator and protagonist of the novel. As the head guard on Death Row, he is compassionate and fair-minded, treating the inmates with respect while maintaining order. Paul’s encounter with John Coffey profoundly changes his life, leading him to question his role in the prison system and the nature of justice. His experience with Coffey’s healing touch grants him an unnaturally long life, which becomes both a blessing and a curse as he outlives his loved ones.
John Coffey
John Coffey is a large African American man with a childlike demeanour, convicted of raping and murdering two young girls. Despite his imposing physical presence, he is gentle and emotional, often crying in his cell. Coffey possesses extraordinary healing abilities, which he uses to cure various ailments throughout the story. His character serves as a Christ-like figure, bearing the pain of others and ultimately sacrificing himself. Coffey’s innocence and the injustice of his situation form the moral centre of the novel.
Percy Wetmore
Percy is a sadistic and incompetent guard who obtained his position through his political connections. He is universally disliked by both inmates and fellow guards due to his cruel behaviour and lack of professionalism. Percy’s actions, particularly his deliberate sabotage of an execution, serve as a catalyst for many of the novel’s tragic events. His character represents the abuse of power and the dangers of unchecked authority.
Eduard “Del” Delacroix
Del is a Cajun inmate on Death Row, convicted of rape and murder. Despite his crimes, he is portrayed as a generally mild-mannered prisoner who forms a touching bond with a mouse he names Mr. Jingles. Del’s character and his relationship with Mr. Jingles provide moments of levity and humanity amidst the grim setting of Death Row. His botched execution, caused by Percy’s malicious interference, is one of the most horrific scenes in the novel.
William Wharton
Known as “Wild Bill,” Wharton is a violent and unpredictable inmate who arrives on the Mile after John Coffey. He is revealed to be the true perpetrator of the crime for which Coffey was convicted. Wharton’s character serves as a foil to Coffey’s gentle nature, embodying true evil and cruelty. His presence on the Mile creates constant tension and leads to several violent incidents.
Reader Fit
The Green Mile would appeal to readers who enjoy thought-provoking, character-driven narratives with elements of the supernatural. Fans of Stephen King’s work will appreciate his signature blend of horror and human drama. The book is particularly suited for those interested in exploring themes of justice, morality, and the human condition.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction set in the American South during the Great Depression will find the setting compelling. Due to its mature themes and some graphic descriptions, the book is best suited for adult readers.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Supernatural Drama / Historical Fiction
- Publication Year: 1996
- Reading Time Estimate: 12-15 hours
- Notable Awards: Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel (1996), Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel (1997)
Related Books
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – Another powerful exploration of racial injustice in the American South.
- “The Shawshank Redemption” by Stephen King – A novella dealing with themes of hope and injustice in a prison setting.
- “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” by John Berendt – A non-fiction novel set in the American South that blends true crime with local colour and supernatural elements.
