Chuck

A young friend who sacrifices himself to save Thomas.

Chuck is a young and chubby boy with curly hair who was the newest Glader until Thomas arrived. He immediately becomes friends with Thomas and acts like a little brother with him. Chuck is a "Slopper", one of the Gladers who handle the distasteful jobs the others do not want. He is around 13 years old.

Quick Facts

Role: Glader; Friend to Thomas
Affiliation: The Gladers
First appearance: The Maze Runner (Book)

Lore & Background

Chuck's role in the Glade is defined by his youth and his job as a Slopper, handling tasks others avoid. He becomes Thomas's first friend after Thomas arrives, offering comfort and information about the Glade's rules. When the Grievers begin their nightly attacks, Chuck hides with the others in the Homestead. At the end of the book, after Thomas and Teresa insert the code to escape the Maze, the remaining Gladers find themselves in a room with scientists. Gally throws a knife at Thomas, but Chuck dives in front of him, sacrificing himself for Thomas.

Reader's Guide

Chuck's arc begins as the newest Glader before Thomas arrives, making him a source of guidance for the protagonist. He is a Slopper, meaning he handles the jobs no one else wants. His friendship with Thomas is immediate and brotherly. During the final escape from the Maze, after the code is inserted, the group enters a room with scientists. Gally appears and throws a knife at Thomas. Chuck dives in front of Thomas, taking the knife and dying. His sacrifice is the final emotional blow of the novel.