The excerpt from Joyce Carol Oates' "Carthage" highlights a significant theme regarding the perception of individuals. It contrasts the approach of viewing a person merely as a "case" to be analyzed or solved, suggesting that such a perspective strip away the complexity and humanity inherent in each individual. The corporal's refusal to see life through this lens illustrates a deeper moral conflict, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the full richness of human experiences rather than reducing them to mere problems to be resolved.

This quote suggests that God, in contrast to the corporal, does not view people as mere cases or problems but rather celebrates their individuality and the myriad factors that shape their lives. By illustrating this point, Oates invites readers to consider the ethical implications of labeling people as cases, prompting a discussion about empathy, understanding, and the moral obligations we hold towards one another as human beings.