Who Is The Main Protagonist In Carol Book?

I've always been fascinated by the way 'Carol' unfolds through Therese's eyes. She's this young, somewhat naive shopgirl who gets swept into this intense relationship with Carol, and it's her perspective that guides the entire story. What makes Therese so compelling is how subtly she changes—starting off as this passive observer of her own life, then gradually finding her voice through her connection with Carol. Highsmith doesn't shout about Therese's growth; it's in small moments, like when she finally stands up to Richard or when she starts making bolder choices in her career. The contrast between her quiet exterior and the storm of emotions underneath is what makes her such a relatable protagonist.

What really gets me is how Therese's artistic nature shapes how she sees the world. Her photography and set design work aren't just hobbies—they reflect how she processes things, often noticing details others miss. That's why her perspective feels so intimate; we're not just watching a love story, we're seeing the world through an artist's sensitive lens. The ending, where she walks toward Carol, feels like the culmination of everything—her hesitation, her longing, her quiet determination. It's not a dramatic Hollywood moment, but something far more real and satisfying.

Therese Belivet carries 'Carol' with this understated strength that sneaks up on you. At first glance she seems like just another young woman in 1950s New York, but her journey from uncertainty to self-assurance is the backbone of the novel. I love how her relationship with Carol isn't some magical fix—it's the catalyst that helps her realize she deserves more than the life society expects of her. The way she navigates the risks of their forbidden relationship shows more courage than any sword-wielding hero. Her quiet rebellion against normalcy makes her one of the most authentic protagonists I've encountered.