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Little Caesar · Chapter

VII explained

Rico buys all the newspapers, cuts out articles about the holdup and the murder of Police Captain Courtney, and reads them repeatedly in his room.

What happens

Rico buys all the newspapers, cuts out articles about the holdup and the murder of Police Captain Courtney, and reads them repeatedly in his room. He takes offense at being described as an 'unhealthy-looking foreigner,' insisting he has never been sick a day in his life.

Themes in this chapter

  • Immigrant Experience

    Rico is described in the press as a 'foreigner' and 'unhealthy-looking,' highlighting how immigrant criminals were stereotyped and othered by mainstream society.

  • Crime and Consequence

    Rico's obsessive reading of the clippings shows his preoccupation with the aftermath of the robbery and murder, and his concern over how he is portrayed.

Characters to notice

  • Rico

    Rico collects and reads newspaper clippings about the robbery and Courtney's murder, reacting angrily to descriptions of him as an unhealthy foreigner.

  • Courtney

    Police Captain Courtney is mentioned as the victim of the shooting during the holdup.

Key passages

  • “One said: … the thug who shot Police Captain Courtney was a small, pale foreigner, probably an Italian. He was dressed in a natty overcoat and a light felt hat.”

    A newspaper describes the killer of Police Captain Courtney as a small, pale Italian immigrant wearing a stylish overcoat and light hat.

    The press identifies Rico by ethnic stereotypes and clothing, reinforcing his foreignness.

  • “Rico tore up this clipping. “Where do they get that unhealthy stuff!” he said. “I never been sick a day in my life.””

    Rico angrily destroys the article that calls him unhealthy, insisting he has always been in good health.

    Rico's pride is wounded by the implication that he looks weak or sickly.

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