John Russell, who is the hero of this western, is known by several names, including Hombre, which is what he is called throughout the novel. The name encourages the reader to see Russell as independent and brave, as someone who has come to terms with his indentity. He is an archetypal figure, and thus properly exhibits a deeply felt interest in his fellows and a responsibility for them. Most importantly, although he is independent, Russell depends upon people for his livelihood and, because of his social conscience and humanity, becomes involved with others. At the end, in his ultimate act of selfless bravery, this quintessential loner is not even the master of his own fate.