The Death Of Mattie Ross

Mattie Ross, the now half-orphan, in Western Film True Grit has become obsessed with seeking revenge soon after finding out about her father’s death; “No doubt Chaney fancied himself scot-free, but he was wrong. You must pay for everything in this world, one way and another. There is nothing free, except the grace of God.” Although not gone as intended, Tom Chaney’s murder in True Grit ultimately transforms itself into a victory for Mattie and the people around her. The sole purpose of Mattie Ross’s pursuit for Tom was to avenge her father’s death; not only was she able to do this, but along the way was able to build a strong relationship with someone she would have never imagined and rid the world of multiple outlaws.

Having already lost

She no longer had a dad and wanted to make sure Tom Chaney received proper punishment for her father’s death. Besides Tom Chaney’s death itself, the road to this goal led Mattie to one of her many victories. To help her track down Tom, Mattie was accompanied by Rooster Cogburn and LaBoeuf, two very rugged and distinct characters. One was a drunkard U.S. Marshal and the latter a Texas Ranger who was on the hunt for Tom as the result of his crimes in Texas; initially Mattie saw these two men only as business partners, but with time got closer to the both. Cogburn is the character who becomes much more than an acquaintance to Mattie as they continue they’re manhunt. We see the start to their relationship in the scene where Mattie has crossed the river on her horse in order to join Cogburn and LaBoeuf on their journey. She then infuriates LaBoeuf to the point where he gets off his horse and gives her a well deserved “spanking”. “Help me, Marshal”, Mattie would yell yet Cogburn continued to just watch; Mattie keeps pleading for help and Cogburn finally gives in. “No, I don't believe I will. Put your switch away, LeBoeuf” responds Cogburn; after LaBoeuf tells him he won’t stop, Cogburn