Ysrael Junot Diaz is a character in the short story "Ysrael" by Junot Diaz, which was first published in 1996 as part of Diaz's debut short story collection, "Drown." The story follows the experiences of the young, biracial narrator, Yunior, as he and his friends encounter Ysrael, a young boy with a disfigurement, in the Dominican Republic. The encounter forces Yunior and his friends to confront their own prejudices and biases, as well as the violent and cruel treatment of Ysrael by the other boys and by society at large.
Throughout the story, Diaz uses the character of Ysrael to explore themes of identity, racism, and violence. Ysrael is described as having a "chocolate face" and "Indian" features, and his physical appearance serves as a constant reminder of the complex racial and cultural history of the Dominican Republic. Yunior and his friends initially mock and torment Ysrael, referring to him as a "monkey" and a "freak," and they are surprised when he speaks to them in Spanish. Their initial reactions to Ysrael reveal their own biases and prejudices, as well as the ways in which society has taught them to view and treat those who are different from them.
However, as the story progresses, Yunior begins to see Ysrael as a complex and fully realized human being, rather than just a victim or a stereotype. He recognizes that Ysrael has experienced trauma and abuse at the hands of others, and he begins to feel empathy and compassion for him. Yunior's shift in perspective serves as a commentary on the dangers of judging and mistreating those who are different from us, and the importance of recognizing the humanity in all people.
In addition to exploring themes of identity and prejudice, Diaz also uses the character of Ysrael to address the issue of violence in the Dominican Republic. The boys' treatment of Ysrael is violent and cruel, and it is clear that Ysrael has faced similar treatment from others in the past. The violence against Ysrael serves as a metaphor for the larger societal violence and oppression that exists in the Dominican Republic, and the ways in which marginalized and disadvantaged individuals are often targeted and mistreated.
Overall, the character of Ysrael in "Ysrael" serves as a powerful and poignant exploration of themes of identity, racism, and violence. Through the portrayal of Ysrael's experiences, Diaz highlights the dangers of judging and mistreating those who are different from us, and the importance of recognizing the humanity in all people.
