Miss Ravenel's Conversion from Secession to Loyalty: Analysis of Major Characters
"Miss Ravenel's Conversion from Secession to Loyalty" explores the transformative journey of Lillie Ravenel, a young Southern woman navigating the complexities of loyalty amid the Civil War. Initially a staunch supporter of the Confederacy, Lillie's life takes a dramatic turn after marrying Colonel Carter, a Union officer who ultimately reveals his moral weaknesses through infidelity and irresponsibility. The narrative highlights the contrast between Carter's opportunism and the strong character of Edward Colburne, Lillie's old admirer and a captain in the Union army. After the death of her husband, Lillie finds solace and renewed happiness in Edward, whose integrity and commitment to justice help her recognize the virtues of the Northern cause.
The story also features figures like Dr. Ravenel, Lillie's father, who is dedicated to the rehabilitation of freed slaves, and Mrs. Larue, Lillie's aunt, who complicates family dynamics through her affair with Carter. The backdrop of a war-torn America emphasizes the shifting allegiances and moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Through its examination of personal and ideological transformations, the work delves into themes of loyalty, love, and the quest for justice during a tumultuous period in American history.
Miss Ravenel's Conversion from Secession to Loyalty: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: John William de Forest
First published: 1867
Genre: Novel
Locale: New England and Louisiana
Plot: Historical
Time: The Civil War period
Lillie Ravenel, a vivacious and beautiful young Southern woman loyal to her section during the Civil War. She marries Colonel Carter, a Union officer who helps her and her father during the federal troops' occupation of New Orleans. Her husband takes her aunt as his mistress. An old admirer, Edward Colburne, by his love restores her happiness and marries her after the death of her husband. His influence makes her recognize the justice of the Northern cause.
Dr. Ravenel, Lillie's father, a medical doctor. He wants to rehabilitate the freed slaves of the South. He has his daughter teach some of his charges to read. Aware of Colonel Carter's moral weakness, he hopes Lillie will marry Colburne. When she decides to marry Carter, however, he does not forbid it.
Colonel Carter, Lillie's first husband. He is attractive to women and an opportunist. He has an affair with Mrs. Larue, Lillie's aunt. A weak man, he is given to drink and indebtedness, as well as women. He is killed in battle during the Civil War.
Edward Colburne, a longtime admirer of Lillie. He is a captain in the Union army, a courageous and capable officer as well as a man of excellent character. Worn out and sick near the end of the war, he returns home to New England, convalesces under Dr. Ravenel's care, and successfully woos Lillie, who had returned to New England with her father after the death of her husband.
Mrs. Larue, Lillie's aunt. An opportunist, she takes up a love affair with Colonel Carter, Lillie's first husband.
The Meurices, a New Orleans Creole family sympathetic to the Northern cause. They are friends of Captain Colburne.
Major Gazaway, the cowardly commander of a Union fort. When he fails in his duty, Captain Colburne takes command and repulses a Confederate attack.