Baylor University
The prison guard is tough guy. What makes a man become so cruel?
The Shawshank redemption
The Shawshank redemption
We never find out exactly why the guard is so cruel. Any number of things can turn a man to be like this. Finding satisfaction in the suffering of others is, unfortunately, not a unique trait. Low self-esteem and a troubled past might be hints as to why the guard turned out like he did. He also abuses his power, which he seems to like.