Agnes Grey: Analysis of Major Characters
"Agnes Grey" is a novel that explores the experiences of the titular character, a young woman who becomes a governess to support her family after financial difficulties arise. The narrative delves into Agnes's encounters with various characters, each reflecting different aspects of society and the challenges faced by women in the 19th century. Key figures include Richard Grey, Agnes's father, whose financial misfortune prompts her to seek employment; Mrs. Bloomfield, Agnes's first employer, who remains oblivious to her children's misbehavior; and the arrogant Bloomfield children, whose antics highlight the struggles of a governess.
In her second position at Horton Lodge, Agnes interacts with a range of personalities, including the flirtatious Rosalie Murray and the pious curate Edward Weston, who eventually becomes her husband. The dynamics between these characters underscore themes of class, authority, and personal integrity. Agnes's relationships and the societal pressures she faces provide insight into the challenges of female autonomy and the realities of employment during this period. Through its character analysis, "Agnes Grey" offers a poignant reflection on the intersections of gender, class, and moral values in Victorian society.
Agnes Grey: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Anne Brontë
First published: 1847
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Domestic realism
Time: Mid-nineteenth century
Agnes Grey, the pious, sheltered daughter of a clergyman. She takes employment as a governess when her family's financial situation becomes desperate.
Richard Grey, Agnes' father, a poor person who loses his patrimony in a disastrous speculation.
Mrs. Grey, Agnes' mother.
Mary Grey, Agnes' sister.
Mrs. Bloomfield, mistress of Wellwood. Agnes' first employer, she is convinced that her incorrigible children, Agnes' charges, are angels.
Tom Bloomfield, Mary Bloomfield, and Fanny Bloomfield, Agnes' arrogant, disobedient charges.
Mr. Bloomfield, the stern father of Tom, Mary Ann, and Fanny. He blames Agnes when the children misbehave.
Uncle Robson, Mrs. Bloomfield's brother. His encouragement of Tom's cruel behavior brings forth a protest from Agnes and causes her dismissal.
Mrs. Murray, mistress of Horton Lodge, Agnes' second employer.
Rosalie Murray, Agnes' pretty, flirtatious charge at Horton Lodge. At sixteen, she is interested only in making a good match.
Matilda Murray, Agnes' younger charge at Horton Lodge, who is interested only in horses.
Edward Weston, the pious, sincere curate at Horton Lodge. He later becomes Agnes' husband.
Mr. Hatfield, the pompous rector of Horton and the rejected suitor of Rosalie Murray.
Harry Meltham, and Mr. Green, suitors of Rosalie.
Sir Thomas Ashby, the wealthy, boorish owner of Ashby Park, with whom Rosalie makes an unhappy marriage.
Nancy Brown, an old widow at Horton visited by Agnes and Edward Weston during the development of their romance.