In Paul's Case was Paul rebellious?

Answer 1

In the story Paul's Case, by Willa Cather, Paul was absolutely rebellious. He rebelled against his entire life, and saw himself as above it. He couldn't see past his immediate desires, to be rich, to have leisure time to enjoy music, to be in a different class. Instead of working to get there, he just spurned everything that wasn't his dream. Instead of taking down the pictures over his bed, he just hated them. He was so wrapped up in his selfish dream that he committed suicide rather than go back to his more "mundane" existence, where he would actually have to work rather than enjoy himself.

I think most of us probably go through dissatisfaction with our lives, and want to change them, but Paul definitely isn't the poster child for how to deal with these feelings. He lied and stole and committed suicide... and the sad thing is that he could have done so much more, and been so much more. His tragedy isn't the fault of society. It is that he couldn't stand to wait, to make a transition... to work for what he wanted.

Answer 2

Yes, Paul in "Paul's Case" can be described as rebellious. He rejects societal norms and expectations, seeking a life of luxury and excitement that contrasts with his mundane reality. His actions and choices throughout the story showcase his desire to defy conventional constraints and live life on his own terms.