The Last of the Barons: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Last of the Barons" is a historical novel that delves into the complex dynamics of power during the Wars of the Roses in England, focusing on the major characters who navigate the turbulent political landscape. Key figures include Marmaduke Nevile, a nobleman seeking service with the influential Earl of Warwick, and Nicholas Alwyn, a younger son loyal to King Edward IV who plays a pivotal role in capturing Nevile. The Earl of Warwick, known as the kingmaker, significantly impacts the throne by placing Henry VI back in power but ultimately faces his demise in battle. The character of Isabella, Warwick's proud daughter, and her gentle sister Anne, highlight the personal stakes within these political maneuvers. Edward IV, whose actions lead to Warwick's discontent, and Henry VI, who is reinstated and then ousted again, represent the shifting allegiances of the time. Additional characters like William de Hastings and Sibyll Warner weave a narrative that intertwines love and ambition amid the chaos of war. The story not only showcases individual motivations but also reflects the broader societal conflicts of the era, making it a rich study of character and historical context.
The Last of the Barons: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Edward Bulwer-Lytton
First published: 1843
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Historical
Time: 1467–1471
Marmaduke Nevile, a noble whose father fought for Lancaster. He comes to London to seek service with Warwick.
Nicholas Alwyn, a younger son of a good family, who fights to restore King Edward. He captures Nevile in battle.
Lord Montagu, Warwick's brother, who, as a Yorkist, refuseshelptoNevile.
The Earl of Warwick, the kingmaker, who takes Nevile into his household. Insulted by Edward IV, he puts Henry VI on the throne. He is killed at the battle of Barnet.
Isabella, Warwick's haughty older daughter.
Anne, his gentle younger daughter. When lecherous King Edward comes to her bedroom, Warner and Nevile save her.
Edward IV, King of England, deposed by the insulted Warwick.
Henry VI, put on the throne by Warwick but removed by a coalition of the rich merchants and the Yorkists.
William de Hastings, a royal chamberlain to Edward IV. He is in love with Sibyll.
Adam Warner, an alchemist who is working on a model of a steam engine. He and Sibyll are killed during the Wars of the Roses.
Sibyll Warner, his daughter, rescued by Nevile from a crowd. Later, when he is wounded by robbers, she cures him.
The Duchess of Bedford, a patroness of science and of Warner.
Katherine de Bonville, Warwick's sister, who secretly marries Hastings after her husband's death.