Danny Miller in Pat Barker's Border Crossing - a study in manipulation

Abstract

In may essay I discuss the character Danny Miller in Pat Barker's "Border Crossing (2001). I argue that he does not change in the novel, even though he goes through rehabilitation, after murdering Lizzie Parks, his elderly neighbour. Firstly, I write about real-life cases of similar child murderers and consider whether Danny is representative of these cases or not. Also, I write about whether Danny's family and background play a part in why he murders the old lady or if he simply has an "evil nature". Furthermore, I bring up the question that the novel raises about the existence of evil and the innocence of children. Danny's personality and skills in manipulation are also important aspects of this essay. Lastly, the name "Border Crossing is very suitable for this novel and in this essay I will discuss why.