Don Juan: Analysis of Major Characters
"Don Juan: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the complex relationships and moral dynamics surrounding the infamous character of Don Juan, a notorious seducer and libertine. Central to the narrative is Don Juan himself, characterized as a philanderer who manipulates and betrays those around him, including his wife, Elvire, who ultimately seeks refuge in a convent after realizing the depths of his treachery. Accompanying him is Sganarelle, his loyal valet, who grapples with his disdain for Don Juan's actions but remains bound by fear. The narrative also features Don Carlos and Don Alonse, Elvire's brothers, who are driven by a desire for revenge against Don Juan for his betrayal.
A significant figure in the story is the Statue of the Commander, representing the consequences of Don Juan's actions and his ultimate reckoning, as it threatens him with death for his unrepentant nature. Other characters, such as Don Louis, Don Juan's father, and the country girls Charlotte and Mathurine, further illustrate the impact of Don Juan's deceitful behavior on those in his orbit. This analysis highlights the interplay of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for justice, painting a portrait of a man whose refusal to repent leads to his downfall.
Don Juan: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Molière
First published: 1682
Genre: Play
Locale: Sicily
Plot: Social satire
Time: Seventeenth century
Don Juan (hwahn), a philanderer and scoundrel. A seducer of women of whom he soon tires, a neglecter of debts, and a dishonorer of friends, Don Juan is called on to repent. He replies by becoming a greater hypocrite than ever, continuing his evil ways until he finally offends heaven itself and is destroyed.
Sganarelle (sgah-nah-REHL), Don Juan's valet, who hates his master's evil acts but remains loyal to him because of fear.
Elvire (ehl-VEHR), Don Juan's betrayed wife. Finally free of her passion for her husband, she agrees to return to the convent from which he had abducted her. She begs him to reform and escape the wrath of heaven.
Don Carlos and Don Alonse (ah-LONS), Elvire's brothers, who seek vengeance on Don Juan for his betrayal of their sister.
The Statue of the Commander, part of the tomb of one of Don Juan's victims. Don Juan and Sganarelle ask the statue to dine with them. It accepts, thus causing Don Juan to pretend conversion and repentance. The statue reappears, threatening a terrible death for the really unrepentant sinner.
Don Louis (lwee), Don Juan's distressed father.
Monsieur Dimanche (dee-MAHNSH), Don Juan's creditor, hypocritically put off by his debtor.
Charlotte and Mathurine (mah-tew-REEN), country girls each deceived by Don Juan into thinking she is his only love.
Pierrot (pyeh-ROH), a country lad.