The Fruit of the Tree: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Fruit of the Tree: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate dynamics between key figures in a narrative centered on social issues and personal relationships. The central character, John Amherst, is depicted as an assistant mill manager who seeks to improve working conditions at a mill owned by his first wife, Bessy Westmore. Bessy, characterized by her selfishness and indulgence, ultimately proves indifferent to the plight of her workers, leading to John’s deep disillusionment. Following her death from a morphine overdose, administered by her nurse Justine Brent, John marries Justine, whose life becomes complicated by her role in Bessy’s demise.
The narrative also features Dr. Wyant, a physician who leverages his knowledge of Bessy's death to blackmail Justine, adding layers of moral complexity to the story. Additional characters, such as Mr. Langhope and the millhand Dillon, highlight themes of responsibility and the harsh realities of industrial life. As the story unfolds, it reflects the personal sacrifices and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in pursuit of social justice and personal fulfillment. This exploration offers readers a profound look into character motivations and the societal implications of their actions.
The Fruit of the Tree: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Edith Wharton
First published: 1907
Genre: Novel
Locale: The United States
Plot: Social realism
Time: Late nineteenth century
John Amherst, an assistant mill manager. Concerned with the low standard of working conditions at the mill, he endeavors to convince Bessy Westmore, the owner, of the necessity for improvement. Impressed by her apparent interest in the project, he marries her, only to be disillusioned by her unwillingness to make any sacrifice in the cause. On her death, he marries Justine Brent.
Bessy Westmore, a mill owner and John Amherst's first wife. Selfish and self-indulgent, she disillusions her husband by her lack of interest in the working conditions at the mill. She is paralyzed by an injury and dies of an overdose of morphine she has begged from her nurse, Justine Brent.
Justine Brent, the nurse who becomes John Amherst's second wife. As a companion to Bessy Westmore, she nurses Bessy after she is paralyzed by an accident. She gives in to her patient's pleading for release from pain and administers an overdose of morphine, an act that is to plague her life as John Amherst's wife.
Dr. Wyant, Bessy Westmore's physician, who guesses the truth about her death and uses the knowledge to blackmail Justine Brent.
Mr. Langhope, Bessy Westmore's father.
Cicely Westmore, Bessy Westmore's daughter.
Dillon, a millhand whose injury brings to the fore the miserable working conditions at the mill.
Mrs. Harry Dressel, a friend of Justine Brent.