R.B. "Arby" Benton is a significant character in Michael Crichton’s 1995 novel "The Lost World," which is the sequel to his acclaimed novel "Jurassic Park." Arby is not a character from the original "Jurassic Park" movie or novel but is introduced in the sequel. Created by Crichton, Arby is a junior-high student who plays a crucial role in the narrative of "The Lost World."
Arby comes from a wealthy family and works as an assistant for the wealthy paleontologist Richard Levine. He is best friends with Kelly Curtis, another young assistant of Levine’s [5]. Arby’s character is notable for his intelligence, particularly in computer skills, which proves invaluable to the group’s survival on the island.
In the context of the story, Arby’s involvement is pivotal as he helps predict the location of Site B, also known as Isla Sorna, where the dinosaurs were cloned and raised before being transported to Jurassic Park. His journey and interactions with other characters drive much of the plot and contribute to the themes of survival, science, and human interaction with nature.
Arby’s storyline begins when he and his friend Kelly Curtis assist Richard Levine in his research. After Levine mysteriously disappears, Arby and Kelly join a rescue mission led by Ian Malcolm, a chaos theorist and mathematician who survived the events of the first novel. The group, which includes engineer Jack "Doc" Thorne, his assistant Eddie Carr, and ethologist Dr. Sarah Harding, sets out to find Levine on Isla Sorna.
Upon arriving on the island, Arby uses his computer skills to gain access to the old InGen LAN network, allowing the group to view the island through built-in cameras. This ability helps them navigate the island and avoid some of the dangers posed by the dinosaurs [1][2].
Arby is involved in several key events, including being captured by Velociraptors and later rescued by Thorne, Kelly, and Harding. His resourcefulness and quick thinking are essential in these moments, as he helps the group survive the island’s deadly inhabitants.
Arby’s personality is marked by his intelligence, resourcefulness, and bravery. Despite being a junior-high student, he shows remarkable maturity and composure in the face of extreme danger. His motivations are driven by a desire to help his friends and ensure their survival.
One of Arby’s strengths is his technical expertise, which is crucial in the group’s efforts to understand and navigate the island’s systems. However, his youth and inexperience also make him vulnerable to the dangers they face. This vulnerability adds a layer of realism and tension to the story, as the reader is constantly aware of the risks he and the other characters face.
Arby’s relationships with other characters are also significant. His friendship with Kelly provides a sense of camaraderie and support, while his interactions with the adult characters, such as Malcolm and Thorne, highlight his ability to contribute meaningfully to the group’s efforts.
Arby embodies several themes that are central to "The Lost World." One of the primary themes is the intersection of technology and nature. Arby’s computer skills represent the technological aspect, while the island and its dinosaurs symbolize the natural world. The story explores how these two realms interact and often conflict.
Another theme is the resilience and resourcefulness of youth. Arby and Kelly’s contributions to the group’s survival underscore the idea that even the youngest members of society can make significant impacts when given the opportunity.
The character of Arby also symbolizes the idea of learning and adaptation. Throughout the novel, he learns to navigate the dangers of the island and to rely on his own abilities, symbolizing the human capacity for growth and adaptation in the face of adversity.
Arby’s character, although not as widely recognized as some of the main characters from the original "Jurassic Park," has a significant impact within the context of "The Lost World." His portrayal in the novel and subsequent adaptations highlights the importance of youth and technology in survival scenarios.
In terms of cultural significance, Arby represents a new generation of characters in the Jurassic Park series, one that is more tech-savvy and resourceful. This portrayal resonates with younger readers and audiences who see themselves in his character.
Critics and audiences have generally praised Arby’s character for his intelligence and bravery. His inclusion in the story adds a fresh perspective and allows for a more diverse range of interactions and conflicts.
Some critics have noted that Arby’s character, along with Kelly’s, helps to balance the narrative by providing a younger viewpoint. This balance enriches the story and makes it more relatable to a broader audience.
However, there have been some criticisms regarding the portrayal of young characters in survival scenarios. Some argue that the depiction of Arby and Kelly as highly resourceful and brave might be unrealistic or overly idealized. Despite these criticisms, Arby remains a compelling and well-received character in the series.
Arby’s character has an enduring appeal that contributes to the legacy of "The Lost World." His portrayal as a young, tech-savvy hero has inspired other works and character archetypes in science fiction and adventure genres.
In contemporary discussions, Arby’s character is often cited as an example of how younger characters can drive the plot and contribute significantly to the narrative. His resourcefulness and bravery serve as a model for how youth can make meaningful contributions in challenging situations.
Overall, R.B. "Arby" Benton is a significant character in "The Lost World," bringing a unique perspective and set of skills that are crucial to the story’s progression. His legacy continues to influence the way young characters are portrayed in science fiction and adventure stories.