Buffalo Zeta Brown

Matt Altstiel
11/8/05
Chicano Lit

The Anti-Hero’s Hero

The character of Buffalo Zeta Brown, the protagonist of Acosta’s Revolt of the Cockroach People represents the ultimate anti-hero. Brown represents both the high ideology of a social movement and the moral vacuity of political power. As a result, Brown is at times enviable for his social conviction and dedication to a just cause. At other times however; Brown engages in the type of dangerous and illegal behavior that disgusts the reader. Therefore, the author Acosta presents the reader with a challenge, what is the overall impression of Buffalo Zeta Brown? Why are selected details included about the activities and thoughts of Brown while certain elements are neglected altogether?

Brown comes across as a likeable, yet morally conflicted character who blurs the line between insanity and rational thought. As a narrator, he identifies certain vices: marijuana, alcohol and women early on. However, as the he becomes more deeply involved in the movement, it seems the appetite for such said vices grows. Brown takes powerful narcotics, participates in the destruction of private property, openly encourages disregard for the law, and has sexual relations with girls up to twenty years younger than him. Yet, weighed against the dedication and importance of his presence within the movement, such acts become tolerable and easier to dismiss. Brown inspires allegiance with his commitment to social justice and defense of fellow Chicanos. His position as a lawyer allows Brown to legally contest unjust laws and policies. Since his career choice garners respect from the establishment, Brown is able to be taken more seriously than his counterparts and emerges as a vocal leader with the ability to force social change. While a complex, morally ambiguous character, Buffalo Zeta Brown nevertheless comes across as highly likeable, respectable and most importantly, real character.