Beyond the Chocolate War concludes with the devastating aftermath of a brutal fight, leaving the protagonist, Jerry Renault, severely injured while the individuals responsible for his suffering evade any consequences.
The Final Confrontation and Its Aftermath
The novel culminates in a rigged boxing match, orchestrated by Archie Costello, which devolves into a savage beating for Jerry Renault. Throughout this violent ordeal, Brother Leon, a high-ranking figure within Trinity School's administration, is present. He observes the entire fight from beginning to end without intervening, a deliberate act of complicity that allows the brutal event to run its course.
This intentional inaction by Brother Leon ensures that Archie Costello and the other students involved in this sadistic ritual are not held accountable for their actions. Instead, the school's authority figure implicitly condones the violence, protecting the perpetrators from any repercussions.
Jerry's Fate and the Unjust Outcome
As a result of the fight, Jerry is left in a critical state. The immediate and long-term consequences of the beating are severe for him:
- He suffers a broken jaw.
- It is anticipated that he has sustained additional internal injuries.
- The novel closes with Jerry waiting for an ambulance, which is on its way to transport him to the emergency room for urgent medical attention.
The ending powerfully highlights themes of unchecked power, institutional corruption, and the vulnerability of those who dare to stand against the established order. It leaves the reader with a profound sense of injustice, as the victim faces severe consequences while the orchestrators of the cruelty walk away unpunished.
Key Character Roles in the Ending
| Character | Role in the Final Scene | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Jerry Renault | The defiant protagonist, victim of a rigged fight | Severely injured, awaiting medical treatment |
| Brother Leon | Overseer of the school, witness to the violence | Deliberately abstains from intervention; protects Archie |
| Archie Costello | Mastermind behind the brutal boxing match | Faces no accountability for his actions |
For a comprehensive understanding of the plot and themes explored in the novel, detailed summaries can offer further insights.
