Liza of Lambeth: Analysis of Major Characters
"Liza of Lambeth: Analysis of Major Characters" examines the complex relationships and struggles faced by the central characters in the novel, set within the harsh environment of Lambeth. Liza Kemp, the protagonist, endures a challenging life marked by poverty and a tumultuous home situation, as she works in a factory to support her drunken mother. Her choices reflect the difficult circumstances of her world, including an affair with the married Jim Blakeston, who embodies the archetype of a brutish lower-class husband. Jim's neglectful and abusive behavior not only affects his family but also leads to tragic consequences for Liza, culminating in her death following a miscarriage. Tom, a young man from Liza's class, represents a contrasting figure; he remains steadfastly loyal to Liza despite her choices, offering genuine affection and hoping for a future together. The narrative also includes Sally, Liza's friend, who grapples with her own abusive marriage, highlighting the struggles many women face in acknowledging their plight. Through these characters, the story captures themes of love, betrayal, and the harsh realities of working-class life, providing a poignant commentary on their intertwined fates.
Liza of Lambeth: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: W. Somerset Maugham
First published: 1897
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Naturalism
Time: Late nineteenth century
Liza Kemp, a working girl of Lambeth who lives a brutal life in that depressing borough. She works in a factory and gives most of her wages to a drunken mother who never speaks civilly to anyone. Spurning a faithful lover, Liza accepts a married man who has five children. After many unpleasant events, such as a thorough beating at the hands of her lover's wife, Liza dies of a miscarriage for which her lover is responsible.
Jim Blakeston, Liza's married lover, who is typical of the brutish lower-class husband. He beats his wife, drinks too much, and is fond of but neglectful of his children. Liza's death depresses him, but no one doubts that his shoddy life will go on about as usual without her.
Tom, a young man of Liza's class whose love for her is honest. When her neighbors turn against Liza, Tom remains faithful. Though knowing she is to bear Jim's child, he wants to marry her. His concern for her is the one genuinely kind emotion in the novel.
Sally, Liza's friend, who is typical of the young girl who marries a brutish husband but has too much pride to disclose that he abuses her.
Mrs. Blakeston, Jim's wife, who gives Liza a fatal beating for stealing her husband.