Self-inflicted Wounds

Jude’s self-inflicted wounds symbolize the persistent and destructive nature of his internal traumas. Jude suffered many severe traumas in his childhood and youth, and he struggles with the mental/emotional consequences of these traumas for the rest of his life. He tries to manage the emotional pain via the unhealthy method of inflicting physical pain on himself.

Abuse

Jude’s many abusive experiences symbolize the power of such experiences to harm a person’s psyche. Throughout his childhood, Jude is repeatedly raped, beaten, and emotionally abused by different people. As an adult, these experiences cause him consistent distress and interfere in his ability to have healthy interpersonal relationships. Caleb’s abuse of Jude then further exacerbates Jude’s mental/emotional issues.

Jude’s Legs

Jude’s legs symbolize both the persistence and denial of personal trauma. Due to the many beatings Jude received as...