The Green Mile

Main Ideas

• Justice and Injustice: The book explores the theme of justice through the fates of the inmates, many of whom end up on death row due to mistakes or unfair trials.
• Humanity and Compassion: Despite the harsh conditions of the prison, some characters display deep compassion and humanity, highlighting the importance of these qualities in any circumstance.
• Supernatural Powers: The central character, John Coffey, possesses mystical healing abilities, prompting questions about the nature of his power and its impact on those around him.
• Capital Punishment: The book raises questions about the morality and ethics of the death penalty, showing its destructive impact on all involved in the process.
• Guilt and Redemption: Many characters struggle with feelings of guilt and seek paths to redemption, which is a significant theme in their personal stories.
• Fate and Predestination: The book explores ideas of fate and predestination, questioning how much our lives are controlled by higher forces or chance.