A Kestrel For A Knave

Kes, Billy’s trained kestrel, is a central symbol in A Kestrel for a Knave. He is a symbol of engagement with nature and the potential for a different life for Billy. When Billy first encounters the kestrels in the wild, he is out in the countryside, totally engrossed in the wilderness. He is alone, as his friends were meant to come with him but failed to get out of bed. That Billy alone wakes early enough to see the kestrels signifies that his passion for nature and wildlife is unique. Billy’s inherent fascination with nature changes his attitude and causes others to see him differently. When a farmer spots him on his land, his anger at Billy quickly calms when he sees the earnest fascination with which Billy regards the birds.

In school, Billy is a bullied, disregarded student deemed to have no hope for a better life. Even the most sympathetic teacher, Mr. Farthing, is exasperated with him. However, when Billy shares his passion for falconry with the class, everyone pays rapt attention, and Mr. Farthing expresses admiration of Billy’s knowledge. When Billy talks about Kes and the beauty of kestrels, he becomes far more articulate than he has ever been in school.