Cass Timberlane: Analysis of Major Characters
"Cass Timberlane" is a novel centered around the life of Cass Timberlane, a district judge in the fictional town of Grand Republic, Minnesota. The narrative explores themes of love, class differences, and personal struggles through the lens of its major characters. Cass, portrayed as a good-hearted but lonely man, finds love with Jinny Marshland, a young woman from a lower socioeconomic background. Their marriage, although fraught with challenges, ultimately hinges on Cass's patience and dedication.
Jinny grapples with her transition into a new life, leading her to an affair with Bradd Criley, a friend of Cass who is known for his flirtatious nature. This relationship complicates her marriage until a health crisis prompts her to reevaluate her priorities. Other characters, such as Blanche Timberlane, Cass's ex-wife, and various friends like Dr. Roy Drover and Jay Laverick, contribute to the social landscape and moral dilemmas faced by the couple. The dynamics among these characters reflect broader societal themes, illustrating the impact of personal choices on relationships and community perceptions. Overall, "Cass Timberlane" invites readers to consider the complexities of love and fidelity within different social contexts.
Cass Timberlane: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Sinclair Lewis
First published: 1945
Genre: Novel
Locale: Grand Republic, Minnesota
Plot: Social realism
Time: The 1940's
Cass Timberlane, district judge in Grand Republic, Minnesota. A good man, he lives a lonely life after his divorce until he is stirred in his forty-first year by a young girl, Jinny Marshland, who is from the lower classes. He marries the girl, despite the objections of his friends and hers. The marriage is not entirely a happy one, but thanks to the judge's patience and love, the marriage succeeds.
Blanche Timberlane, the judge's ex-wife.
Jinny Marshland, a young girl who marries Judge Timberlane. She finds difficulty in adjusting to her new life. She has an affair with Bradd Criley and, wanting to live in New York, almost breaks up her marriage. When she falls ill and realizes she needs her husband, she goes back to him and the small town in which they live.
Bradd Criley, one of Judge Timberlane's friends. He pursues the judge's wife, as he does every attractive woman, and becomes her lover.
Dr. Roy Drover, one of the judge's friends, a philanderer.
Boone Havock and Queenie Havock, wealthy but vulgar friends of Judge Timberlane.
Jay Laverick, the rich, drunkard friend of Judge Timberlane. His attentions to Jinny cause gossip.
Chris Grau, a well-to-do, attractive woman in love with Judge Timberlane. She sympathizes with his problems.
Mrs. Higbee, Judge Timberlane's understanding housekeeper.