Tuesdays with Morrie
Critical Analysis Essay

In an effort to share the “last class” he had with his college sociology professor, Mitch Album wrote, “Tuesdays with Morrie.” This moving account of the life lessons that Morrie taught him is a beautiful tribute to a man whose compassion and love for humanity made him a favorite among those who knew him. Though stricken with the debilitating disease ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) and knowing death was swiftly approaching Morrie continued to help others until his body no longer allowed him to do so. Album uses time sequence, characterization and point of view to chronicle the experiences he had and the lessons he learned while visiting with his friend every Tuesday during that …show more content…

Yet he did not turn inward, reclusive or insensitive. Instead, those events gave bloom to his compassion, empathy and tolerance. Using the element, point of view, Album takes the reader into his confidence and creates a personal connection. Morrie comes alive on the pages of Album’s book. His use of characterization reflects Morrie’s inspirational influence and makes him unforgettable. When a physician informs a patient that they have been stricken with a disease that is terminal, sinking into a deep depression is not only a common response, it is also understandable and expected. To maintain dignity and keep a positive and loving attitude when death is knocking on the door is nearly impossible. Morrie made a conscious decision to not only do that; he was also determined to have others learn from him. Instead, he would make death his final project, the center point of his days. Since everyone was going to die, he could be of great value right? He could be research. A human textbook. “Study me and my slow and patient demise. Watch what happens to me. Learn with me” (Album10).
In addition to his optimism, his affectionate nature made him a character that is easy to connect with and easy to love. Album’s Characterization of Morrie enhances the aspects of his personality that made