Who has a crush on Angela in The Westing Game? Exploring the Romantic Undercurrents
In Ellen Raskin's captivating mystery, The Westing Game, the intricate web of characters and their hidden motives often takes center stage. Among the many intriguing relationships, the question of who harbors romantic feelings for the beautiful and seemingly perfect Angela Wexler is a point of curiosity for many readers. While the narrative doesn't overtly declare a multitude of suitors, a close examination of the text reveals at least one prominent individual whose actions and thoughts suggest a deep admiration, and possibly a crush, on Angela.
Dr. Denton Deere: The Most Likely Candidate
The character most strongly implied to have a crush on Angela Wexler is none other than Dr. Denton Deere. Initially introduced as the pompous fiancé of Angela's sister, Turtle, Dr. Deere's interactions with Angela are noteworthy. He is often observed paying close attention to her, and his demeanor shifts subtly when he is in her presence.
Let's break down the evidence:
- Observation and Concern: Dr. Deere frequently observes Angela. He expresses concern for her well-being, particularly her apparent unhappiness and the pressures she faces due to her impending marriage to Dr. Sidney Sikes, a man chosen by her mother. While a fiancé might naturally be concerned about his intended's sister, Deere's concern seems to extend beyond familial obligation.
- Her Distress: When Angela is visibly distressed, especially after the bombing incidents, Dr. Deere is one of the first to offer comfort and assistance. He shows a protective instinct towards her that goes beyond what might be expected of someone who is engaged to her sister.
- His Own Unhappiness: It's important to remember that Dr. Deere is himself in an unhappy situation. His engagement to Turtle is not one of deep affection, and he often expresses his boredom and dissatisfaction with his life. This emotional void might make him more susceptible to developing feelings for someone as outwardly composed and beautiful as Angela.
- Subtle Interactions: While their interactions are not overtly romantic, there are subtle moments where Dr. Deere seems to be seeking Angela's attention or approval. He often tries to impress her with his medical knowledge or his confident demeanor, perhaps hoping to win her admiration.
The Nuance of Angela's Situation
It's crucial to understand that Angela Wexler is in a very difficult position within the Westing Game. She is a pawn in her mother's social ambitions, engaged to a man she does not love, and living a life of manufactured perfection that masks her inner turmoil. This makes her a figure of both admiration and pity, and it's plausible that others, including Dr. Deere, would be drawn to her in various ways.
Other Potential, Though Less Likely, Admirers
While Dr. Denton Deere is the most evident candidate, some readers might speculate about other characters. However, the evidence for them having a crush on Angela is significantly weaker:
- Chris Thedakis: Chris is shy and has a physical disability, making it less likely he would overtly express romantic feelings. While he is observant and might admire Angela's beauty, there's no strong textual evidence to suggest a romantic crush.
- Theo West: Theo, Turtle's older brother, is a more complex character. He is intelligent and observant, and he does interact with Angela. However, his primary focus is often on his own goals and his developing understanding of the game. Any feelings he might have for Angela are not strongly indicated as romantic in nature.
Ultimately, the narrative of The Westing Game is more focused on the puzzle and the unfolding mystery than on explicit romantic subplots. However, the subtle cues and character dynamics suggest that Dr. Denton Deere's admiration for Angela Wexler likely crossed the line into romantic feelings, making him the most prominent individual with a crush on her within the story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Dr. Denton Deere show he might have a crush on Angela?
Dr. Denton Deere displays a crush on Angela through his consistent observation of her, his protective demeanor, and his attempts to comfort her during stressful moments. He also seems to try to impress her with his intelligence and confidence, suggesting a desire for her approval beyond familial concern.
Why is Angela Wexler a character that people might develop crushes on?
Angela is portrayed as exceptionally beautiful and outwardly perfect, which can attract admiration. Furthermore, her underlying unhappiness and the pressures she faces evoke sympathy and a desire to protect or comfort her, which can sometimes blossom into romantic feelings.
Are there any other characters who clearly have a crush on Angela?
While some characters might admire Angela's beauty, the textual evidence strongly points to Dr. Denton Deere as the only character exhibiting clear signs of a romantic crush. Other potential admirers lack sufficient textual support to make such a claim.
