An important theme that Walter Dean Myers explores throughout the novel Monster concerns identity and perception. The protagonist, Steve Harmon, is viewed as a "monster" by the prosecutor while he is on trial for the robbery and murder of Aguinaldo Nesbitt. This label seriously damages Steve's self-esteem, and he begins to question his own identity. He also fears that he will not be able to distinguish himself from the other minorities who are on trial. Kathy O'Brien, Steve's attorney, informs him that it is her job to make him appear different in the eyes of the jury from the other defendants. While Steve is on trial, he questions his morals and struggles with his conscience. He wonders if he is fooling himself and obsesses over being called a "monster." Although Steve is found not guilty, he continues to struggle with his identity and makes films that help him discover his true self.
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