Drums: Analysis of Major Characters
"Drums: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate relationships and developments of key figures set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War. Central to the narrative is John Fraser, a young man shaped by his upbringing on a North Carolina plantation and his experiences abroad. Educated in Edenton, John initially returns home amidst changing political tides, later engaging in naval warfare and experiencing both triumph and injury. His journey is intertwined with various characters, such as Sir Nat Dukinfield, a friend whose life is tragically cut short, and Sally Merrillee, his childhood love, highlighting themes of friendship and loss.
Other notable figures include Wylie Jones, a catalyst for rebellion, and Paul Jones, an adventurous sailor pivotal to the American naval efforts. The story also features family dynamics, such as the nurturing yet strict influence of John’s father, Squire John Fraser, and the romantic aspirations of Eve Tennant, who adds complexity to John’s relationships. Through these characters, the text delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the personal costs of war, offering a nuanced exploration of life during a time of significant upheaval. This overview provides a glimpse into the character-driven narrative and the historical context that shapes their lives.
Drums: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: James Boyd
First published: 1925
Genre: Novel
Locale: North Carolina and London
Plot: Historical
Time: American Revolution
Squire John Fraser, a North Carolina planter, a strict but kind Scotsman determined to educate his son as a gentleman.
Caroline Fraser,hiswife.
John Fraser, their son. Educated in Edenton, he returns to his inland farm home when British authority is overthrown in the coastal town. Sent to England on business by his father, he becomes a clerk for an importing firm. He does a favor for Paul Jones (whom he had met at Wylie Jones's home) and later signs as a sailor on Jones's ship when he raids the Scottish coast. John is wounded in a sea battle and, still feverish, he sails for home on a Dutch ship. At first rejected for the militia, he is later accepted and is wounded in a skirmish. No longer a fighter, John rejoices to learn that the British have been defeated.
Sir Nat Dukinfield, a young sportsman and John's friend. He is killed in a tavern brawl while visiting John in a French port.
Captain Tennant, collector of the port at Edenton.
Eve Tennant, his daughter, a coquette who becomes interested in John.
Wylie Jones, a plantation owner who promotes the North Carolina rebellion against the British.
Paul Jones, an adventurous Scottish sailor who takes Wylie Jones's last name and becomes a raiding captain in the American Navy.
Sally Merrillee, John's childhood playmate, a neighbor of the Frasers. She and John fall in love.
James Merrillee, Sally's father, killed in the war. For a time, John manages the Merrillee farm.
Dr. Clapton, an English clergyman who tutors John in Edenton.
Captain Flood, John's friend, a riverboat skipper who takes him up river to Halifax.
Plain Clothes Hewes, a shipbuilder.
Teague Battle, a young lawyer.
Master Hal Cherry, a repulsive rich boy.
General Nathanael Greene, a victorious American commander.