**Character Sketch of Stephen Leacock from "With the Photographer"**
Stephen Leacock, the author and protagonist of his own story "With the
Photographer," is portrayed as a **self-deprecating, humorous, and somewhat naive
individual** who finds himself in a somewhat absurd situation when he attempts to
engage with a photographer for a portrait. Leacock's character is a blend of light-
hearted humor, personal humility, and an awkwardness that makes him relatable and
endearing to the reader.
### **Key Characteristics of Stephen Leacock:**
1. **Humorous and Witty:**
* Leacock is known for his sharp wit and comedic observations, and this trait is
evident in his narrative voice. He constantly finds humor in the everyday
situations he encounters, including the absurdity of his interactions with the
photographer. His ability to laugh at his own expense, especially as he awkwardly
navigates the photo session, adds a layer of charm to his character.
2. **Self-Deprecating:**
* Throughout the story, Leacock reveals his **insecurity** about his appearance
and the idea of posing for a photograph. He openly mocks himself, describing how he
feels self-conscious and uncomfortable during the entire process. This self-
deprecating humor makes him an easy character to relate to, as many readers can
identify with the awkwardness that often accompanies professional photos.
3. **Awkward and Clumsy:**
* Leacock's clumsiness is evident in his interactions with the photographer. He
is unsure of how to pose and what to do with his hands, and his discomfort is
amplified by the photographer's instructions, which seem both overly complex and
unnecessary to him. Leacock’s nervousness and confusion create a sense of
**irony**, as he is a well-known public figure yet feels like a fish out of water
in such a simple social situation.
4. **Philosophical and Reflective:**
* Even amidst the humorous situations, Leacock subtly reflects on the nature of
**photography and human vanity**. He expresses how portraits, though meant to
capture the best of a person’s appearance, can often highlight their flaws or
create an image that feels detached from reality. This moment of philosophical
introspection adds depth to his character and hints at his awareness of the
**transience of appearance** and the complexities of self-perception.
5. **Socially Conscious:**
* Though the story is lighthearted, there is a hint of Leacock's understanding
of how people are judged by their outward appearances. His reflection on how one
should look in a photograph, the angles, and the positioning suggests his awareness
of societal expectations regarding **image and self-presentation**.
### **Conclusion:**
Stephen Leacock's character in "With the Photographer" is a delightful mix of
humor, self-awareness, and vulnerability. His **awkwardness**, combined with his
wit, makes him an enjoyable and relatable figure. By highlighting the comedy in an
otherwise simple task, Leacock uses his personal insecurities to connect with
readers and subtly reflect on larger themes of vanity and self-perception, all
while maintaining his trademark light-hearted tone.
