Coningsby: Analysis of Major Characters
"Coningsby: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate relationships and political tensions among a cast of characters in a narrative set against the backdrop of 19th-century England. Central to the story is Harry Coningsby, a young nobleman with progressive views who defies his conservative grandfather, the Marquis of Monmouth, ultimately leading to his disinheritance. Throughout the tale, Coningsby’s love for Edith Millbank, the shy daughter of a wealthy industrialist, highlights the clash between old aristocratic values and emerging liberal ideals. Edith's father, Oswald Millbank, advocates for governance by merit rather than lineage, which frames the broader social commentary present in the narrative.
Supporting characters like the ambitious Lucretia and the wealthy Sidonia further enrich the exploration of social dynamics and personal aspirations. Flora, an actress linked to Coningsby’s lineage, adds depth to the storyline by connecting themes of heritage and legacy. The interplay of these characters reveals the complexities of love, loyalty, and ambition against a backdrop of political reform, making "Coningsby" a compelling examination of character motivations and societal change in a pivotal era. This overview of the major characters invites readers to explore the nuanced social commentary woven into their interactions and conflicts.
Coningsby: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Benjamin Disraeli
First published: 1844
Genre: Novel
Locale: England and Paris
Plot: Bildungsroman
Time: 1832–1840
The Marquis of Monmouth, a British nobleman opposed to reform, especially the Reform Bill of 1832.
Harry Coningsby, a liberal-minded young English nobleman, grandson of the Marquis of Monmouth. Disinherited for defying his grandfather on political grounds, he is eventually elected to Parliament. He marries Edith Millbank, and after the death of his grandfather, he inherits the marquis' fortune indirectly.
Edith Millbank, the beautiful but shy daughter of a wealthy industrialist. Harry Coningsby falls in love with her, but her father refuses at first to permit the marriage. Later he relents, and she is married to Coningsby.
Oswald Millbank, Edith's father. A wealthy manufacturer, he thinks England should be governed by an aristocracy of talent rather than by a hereditary aristocracy. He was at one time the fiancé of Coningsby's mother.
Oswald Millbank, the son of the industrialist of the same name. He is one of Coningsby's close friends and Edith's brother.
Lucretia, a young Italian noblewoman. She tries to attract Coningsby and his friend Sidonia. Failing in these attempts, she settles for marriage with the Marquis of Monmouth for his wealth. Her husband sends her away when she proves to be unfaithful.
Princess Colonna, Lucretia's stepmother. She is a strong supporter of young Coningsby in his early relations with his grandfather.
Sidonia, a wealthy young Jew, a friend of Coningsby. He is also a friend of the Millbank family. He is suspected, wrongly, by Coningsby of being a rival for Edith's hand in marriage.
Flora, a young actress befriended by Coningsby. She turns out to be the natural daughter of the Marquis of Monmouth. The marquis leaves her his fortune, but she in turn wills it to Coningsby when she dies.
Mr. Rigby, a member of Parliament who is supported by the Marquis of Monmouth. He is young Coningsby's caretaker.
Lord Wallinger and Lady Wallinger, relatives of Edith who take her to Paris, where Coningsby renews his acquaintance with Edith and falls in love with her.