Mister Roberts: Analysis of Major Characters
"Mister Roberts" is a play that explores the dynamics aboard the U.S.S. Reluctant during World War II, focusing on the contrasting personalities of its major characters. At the center is Douglas Roberts, the idealistic first lieutenant who is both admired by the crew and loathed by Captain Morton, creating tension that underscores the narrative. Roberts yearns for action but has adapted to the monotony of supply ship duty, which ultimately leads to a tragic ending. Captain Morton, characterized by his officiousness and childishness, exemplifies leadership marked by insecurity and envy towards Roberts, resulting in a strained relationship with the crew. Other notable characters include Ensign Keith, who learns the realities of naval life, and Ensign Pulver, who actively resists Morton's authority. The play also features a range of supporting characters such as Doc, the unpredictable ship's doctor, and sailors like Frank Thompson and Red Stevens, who each exhibit unique personal struggles. Through these characters, "Mister Roberts" delves into themes of camaraderie, conflict, and the impact of war on individual lives, highlighting the diverse experiences within a confined military environment.
Mister Roberts: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Thomas Heggen
First published: 1946
Genre: Novel
Locale: The Southwest Pacific
Plot: Satire
Time: Last months of World War II
Douglas Roberts, first lieutenant of the U.S.S. Reluctant.A born leader, he is sensitive, perceptive, and idealistic. Desiring battle action, he has nevertheless heroically adjusted himself to the dull routine of a supply ship. He is worshiped by the crew, almost worshiped by his fellow officers, and hated by the captain, who fears him and yet refuses to transfer him to another ship. He finally gets his transfer but is ironically killed while drinking coffee in a wardroom when a kamikaze plane hits his destroyer.
Captain Morton, skipper of the Reluctant. He is officious, childish, and unreasonable, and he is thoroughly disliked or hated by his entire crew. His hatred of Mr. Roberts is closely related to his recognition and envy of Roberts' superior intelligence and ability.
Ensign Keith, a former college boy and recently commissioned Bostonian who learns quickly the comparative unimportance of Navy rules and regulations aboard the Reluctant.
David Bookser, a seaman, the spiritual type who manages to get himself a beautiful woman while on shore leave, to the amazement and admiration of his shipmates.
Ensign Pulver, a healthy young officer who not only hates Captain Morton but delights in plotting against him. After getting news of Mr. Roberts' death, Pulver tosses all of Captain Morton's beloved palm trees over the ship's side.
Doc, the ship's doctor, a plump, balding, contradictory, unpredictable little man, sometimes highly regarded and sometimes despised by his patients.
Frank Thompson, a radio man whose baby dies and who vainly seeks permission to fly to the United States for the funeral.
Chief Dowdy, a close friend of Mr. Roberts.
Red Stevens, a recently married seaman who nearly kills another seaman for cruelly ribbing him about his wife's hypothetical infidelities during his absence.
Miss Williamson and Miss Girard, two Navy nurses.