The Journalist as Character in Caragiale’s Work

Abstract

The construction of the journalist as character in Caragiale’s work starts obtusely, as a principle, at
the same time and rhythm with the original, the genuine journalist. Before following the sinuous line constant –
variables, the common feature must be observed. The latter is identified by Lyndon Baines Johnson, former
President of the United States, quoted by David Randall: “Being a journalist is the proof of a certain lack of
character.” (1998: 60.) Far from being a virtue, the lack of character is rarely a definite flaw, since the
journalistic ethics itself seems to have surrendered long ago on this front. From Randall’s point of view, a good
journalist rushes towards the topic on a slide of quick, sprightly features, which do not exclude lack of
character. Here they are: frankness (including “all the virtues and most vices that a reporter needs”),
determination, gumption, passion, enthusiasm, curiosity. (Randall, 1998: 60-62).