John Steinbeck's use of animal imagery further progresses the change of the protagonist in The Pearl. Kino's transition to an animal is shown vividly through Steinbeck's use of animal imagery. A vital part of Steinbeck's retelling of the parable, The Pearl is animal imagery and it is shown through Kino where he starts as a human.

During the beginning of the novel, the protagonist, Kino, is slowly changing because he has found the "Pearl of the World." Before the founding of the great pearl, Kino is a humble, impoverished native who puts his first priority, family. "Then, without warning, he struck the gate a crushing blow with his fist. He looked down in wonder at his split knuckles and at the blood that flowed down between his fingers"(Steinbeck pg. 12). Kino's anger towards the doctor shows the he will do anything to get money of value that the...