The ability to exhibit characteristics of loyalty cause many difficulties, but produce exceptionally durable relationships. Multiple characters in Chaim Potok’s novel, The Chosen, demonstrate that one must consciously choose family loyalty as opposed to easier options that life presents them with. Throughout the book, Danny Saunders, Roger Merrit, and Reb Saunders showcase what loyalty to their family truly means. Danny Saunders differs remarkably from his father, but despite these variances in character, Danny still honors his father with the utmost respect. Similarly, Reb Saunders also experienced difficulties with his own father’s views on raising children in a most religious fashion. Finally, Roger Merrit unconditionally loves his son, Billy, regardless of Billy’s blindness. While all of these characters could have blatantly ignored their obligations to their families, they chose to honor and loyally support their family.…show more content… While Danny deeply respects and loves his father, he can’t fathom why Reb Saunders seemingly ignores his desires and interests. “Danny is now like a person waiting to be let out of jail. He has only one desire,” (p.520). However, Danny does not allow his desired freedom come in the way of his loyalty to Reb Saunders. Despite the pain of obeying his father, Danny unquestioningly carries out every task set before him. While he does not always agree with his father, Danny always obeys, regardless of the struggles it may cause him. Such loyalty does not arise from human nature, but from consciously choosing between family loyalty and
