Content warning: This section of the guide contains references to death by suicide, racism, and the Holocaust.

Andy is a former investment banker and the protagonist of “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption.” Red describes him as a small, neat man with clean, clipped nails who always looked as though he should be wearing a tie. Throughout the novella, Andy Dufresne remains an enigmatic character. He changes little, remaining steadfast in his determination to get either justice or freedom. His taciturnity and focus contributed to his conviction, as the jury was unable to see him as a grieving husband. He is also pragmatic. He doesn’t let the knowledge of his own innocence blind him to the possibility of conviction. He arranges a contingency plan and begins immediately to work on an escape from the prison. Although Andy doesn’t transform, he has an impact on Red, giving Red the courage to attempt life outside prison. He thus initiates rather than enacts The Arc of Transformation.

Andy is a redeemer figure and King frequently alludes to Jesus in his characterization. Andy’s escape from the prison is a death and rebirth. He passes through a dark passage into the underworld, squeezes his way through a sewer, representing death and corruption, and finally emerges into the light.