Liber Amoris: Or, The New Pygmalion: Analysis of Major Characters
"Liber Amoris: Or, The New Pygmalion" is a reflective account by H. William Hazlitt, examining the complexities of unreciprocated love through the lens of his infatuation with a young woman named Sarah Walker. Set in a boardinghouse owned by her father, Micaiah Walker, the narrative unfolds as Hazlitt grapples with his feelings for Sarah, whom he idealizes despite her ambiguous responses to his affection. This exploration of love reveals a tension between his romantic notions and the stark reality of their relationship, as Sarah ultimately views Hazlitt only as a friend, despite their intimate exchanges.
Key characters include Hazlitt himself, whose introspection highlights the often illusory nature of passion, and Sarah Walker, whose youthful innocence is contrasted with her practical approach to their interactions. Supporting characters, such as Peter George Patmore and James Sheridan Knowles, provide a backdrop to Hazlitt's emotional journey, as he confides in them about his romantic aspirations. The text delves into themes of desire, disillusionment, and the intricate dynamics between perception and reality, making it a poignant study of human relationships.
Liber Amoris: Or, The New Pygmalion: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: William Hazlitt
First published: 1823
Genre: Novel
Locale: London and Scotland
Plot: Autobiographical
Time: 1820–1822
H. William Hazlitt), a writer and lover. The author is writing an account of his own foolish passion for a young girl, S. (Sarah Walker), whom he meets in a boardinghouse owned by her father, M.W. (Micaiah Walker). Aware, in his heart, that the girl allows him more liberties than her show of demureness would justify, he is nevertheless romantic enough to endow her with an innocence and good intent that cause him to keep trying to persuade her to marry him. As he inevitably must, he finally learns that reality and one's own image of it are not necessarily the same.
S. (Sarah Walker), a young girl loved by H., in her late teens when she meets the writer. She sits on his lap day after day exchanging kisses with him. She fails, however, to appreciate his elaborate protestations of love and can answer only that her regard can go no further than friendship. When she is caught playing the same game with another, her lover is forced to realize that his love is not what she seems.
C. P. (Peter George Patmore), William Hazlitt's friend, to whom he writes about his love for Sarah Walker.
J. S. K. (James Sheridan Knowles), William Hazlitt's friend, to whom the closing letters of Liber Amoris are addressed.
M. W. (Micaiah Walker), William Hazlitt's landlord, the father of Sarah Walker.