The Madras House: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Madras House" is a narrative that explores the complexities of its characters, primarily set against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal aspirations. Central to the story is Henry Huxtable, a respectable middle-class part-owner of the titular Madras House, and his wife Katherine, who embodies similar values of decorum and propriety. Contrasting them is Constantine Madras, Katherine's brother, who disrupts their conventional life with his return from Arabia, where he has lived unconventionally. His character poses a challenge to the Huxtables' notion of respectability, particularly when his past actions come to light, including his relationship with Marion Yates, an employee at the Madras House, who is pregnant with his child.
Philip Madras, Constantine's son, undergoes a transformation when he recognizes his wife Jessica as an independent individual rather than merely a spouse. This realization prompts him to abandon his interests in the family business to support Jessica's personal growth and their joint commitment to societal betterment. Jessica's struggle for recognition and autonomy reflects broader themes of female agency within the narrative. Other characters, such as Major Hippisly Thomas and Eustace Perrin State, further enrich the storyline, contributing to the intricate web of relationships and societal critiques present in "The Madras House." Through these dynamic characters, the work invites contemplation on identity, respectability, and the roles individuals play within their communities.
The Madras House: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Harley Granville-Barker
First published: 1911
Genre: Play
Locale: London, England
Plot: Social criticism
Time: Early twentieth century
Henry Huxtable, the respectable, middle-class part owner of the Madras House.
Katherine Huxtable, the respectable, middle-class wife of Henry Huxtable.
Constantine Madras, Katherine Huxtable's black sheep brother and part owner of the Madras House. To escape English priggishness, he had retreated some years before to Arabia, where he reportedly lived as the master of a harem. Upon his return to England on business concerning the Madras House, he is a threat to the Huxtable idea of respectability and decency. When it is revealed that he is the father of Marion Yates's unborn child, he expects her meekly to receive his assistance. When she refuses, he is disturbed by her lack of feminine docility and returns to his Arabian household.
Philip Madras, Constantine Madras' son. When he learns that his wife, Jessica, is about to fall in love with Major Hippisly Thomas, he recognizes her for the first time as a person. To please her, he gives up his interest in the Madras House in the hope that they can work together for the good of society.
Marion Yates, an employee at the Madras House and the mother of Constantine Madras' unborn child.
Jessica Madras, Philip Madras' wife. Feeling herself regarded with indifference by her husband, she is about to fall in love with Major Hippisly Thomas. When she finally is recognized by Philip as a person as well as a wife, she unites with him in an endeavor to be useful to society.
Eustace Perrin State, an American, a prospective buyer of the Madras House.
Major Hippisly Thomas, Philip Madras' best friend.
Amelia Madras, Constantine Madras' wife, whom he leaves for life in Arabia.
Mr. Brigstock and Miss Chancellor, employees of the Madras House.