In the movie Brokeback Mountain, Jack and Ennis are depicted as being 19 years old when they first begin work on the mountain. This age is significant because it represents a pivotal time in their lives, where they are transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Being 19 years old, they are still young and relatively inexperienced, yet they are thrust into a challenging and isolated environment that will shape their futures.
At the start of their journey on Brokeback Mountain, Ennis and Jack have different roles. Ennis is stationed at the base camp, which serves as the central hub for their work. He is responsible for various tasks at the camp, such as cooking meals and taking care of the equipment. On the other hand, Jack is assigned to watch over the sheep higher up on the mountain. This separation in their duties initially keeps them apart, limiting their interactions to meal times at the base camp.
It is during these shared meals that Ennis and Jack gradually develop a friendship. They bond over their shared experiences and challenges on the mountain, finding solace in each other’s company. The isolation and harsh conditions of Brokeback Mountain serve as a catalyst for their connection, as they seek comfort and support in one another.
Their age, 19, adds an element of vulnerability to their characters. They are still young and trying to figure out their place in the world. This is particularly evident in Ennis, who is reserved and introverted. His youth and lack of life experience contribute to his cautious nature and reluctance to fully embrace his feelings for Jack.
While their age may seem young, it is important to remember that life on Brokeback Mountain forces them to mature quickly. The isolation, physical labor, and emotional intensity of their relationship push them to confront their own identities and desires. They are forced to navigate societal expectations, personal fears, and the limitations of their circumstances.
The age of 19 serves as a crucial starting point for Jack and Ennis’ journey on Brokeback Mountain. It marks the beginning of a profound and transformative experience that will shape their lives and their understanding of themselves. Their youth, combined with the challenges they face, adds depth and complexity to their characters, making their story all the more compelling and poignant.