The Longest Journey: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Longest Journey" features a complex exploration of its major characters, particularly focusing on their relationships and personal struggles. Central to the narrative is Frederick (Rickie) Elliot, a sensitive young man grappling with a painful past marked by loneliness and physical limitations. His time at Cambridge brings him a degree of happiness, but his life takes a tumultuous turn upon learning that he has a half-brother, Stephen Wonham. Rickie's engagement to Agnes Pembroke, who marries him after the death of her previous fiancé, becomes a source of conflict, as Agnes's conventional expectations alienate him from his true self and from Stephen.
Agnes, in her attempts to control Rickie's life, inadvertently drives him closer to Stephen, who seeks acceptance and love after discovering their familial connection. The dynamics among the characters shift dramatically when Rickie chooses to escape Agnes's dominance by embarking on a journey with Stephen, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The other key figures, including Herbert Pembroke, Mrs. Emily Failing, and Stewart Ansell, contribute to the intricacies of Rickie's relationships and his quest for identity and fulfillment. This analysis highlights the themes of familial bonds, the struggle for personal freedom, and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives.
The Longest Journey: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: E. M. Forster
First published: 1907
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Social realism
Time: Early twentieth century
Frederick (Rickie) Elliot, a sensitive young man. After a childhood made lonely and unhappy by his lameness and the loveless relationship between his father and mother, he finds a certain contentment as a student at Cambridge. During his engagement to Agnes Pembroke, he learns that Stephen Wonham is his half brother. When Rickie's marriage turns out to be an empty gesture, his flight with Stephen marks the beginning of his soul's regeneration, until he is killed in an effort to save Stephen's life.
Agnes Pembroke, Rickie Elliot's old friend, who marries him after the death of her fiancé, Gerald Dawes. She forces him into a dull and conventional life. Finally, in her effort to alienate him from his half brother, Stephen Wonham, she loses him when he and Stephen go away together.
Herbert Pembroke, Agnes Pembroke's brother, with whom she and Rickie Elliot live after their marriage.
Stephen Wonham, Rickie Elliot's half brother. When he learns of his relationship to Rickie, he goes to him and Agnes hoping for love and a home, but he is refused both. Later, he persuades Rickie to turn his back on Agnes' domination and go away with him.
Stewart Ansell, Rickie Elliot's Cambridge friend, who opposes his marriage to Agnes Pembroke and later persuades him to accept Stephen Wonham.
Mrs. Emily Failing, Rickie Elliot's domineering aunt.
Gerald Dawes, Agnes Pembroke's fiancé, who is killed before their marriage.