Sir John van Olden Barnavelt: Analysis of Major Characters
"Sir John van Olden Barnavelt: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate dynamics and motivations of key figures in the historical context of the late 16th and early 17th centuries in the Netherlands. Central to the narrative is Sir John van Olden Barnavelt, an aging advocate who, filled with pride and resentment towards the powerful Prince of Orange, conspires to reclaim his lost influence. Despite his defense of his actions before the senate, Barnavelt faces execution but remains steadfast in his claim of innocence, ultimately praying for his prince as he meets his fate.
The analysis also highlights characters such as Leidenberch, a manipulative conspirator who flirts with the idea of honor and ultimately succumbs to despair, and Modesbargen, who initially cautions against Barnavelt’s ambitions but is drawn into the political turmoil. Grotius and Hogerbeets, supporters of Barnavelt, find their efforts thwarted, reflecting the larger theme of loyalty and betrayal. The narrative contrasts these characters with Prince Maurice, a wise ruler who prioritizes law and order over personal grievances. The interplay of ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of political intrigue underscores the complexity of these historical figures, inviting readers to explore their multifaceted roles in this turbulent period.
Sir John van Olden Barnavelt: Analysis of Major Characters
Authors: Philip Massinger and John Fletcher
First published: 1883
Genre: Play
Locale: The Netherlands
Plot: Historical
Time: 1618–1619
Sir John van Olden Barnavelt, the aging advocate of Holland and West Friesland. Filled with growing pride, he resents the power and the excellent reputation of the Prince of Orange, and he conspires to arouse sedition to regain the control he thinks he has lost. Brought before the senate, he defends himself against charges of treachery by reiterating his real contributions to his nation, and he pathetically tries to console himself for his fall by recalling the esteem in which he was held by many monarchs in his younger days. He swears, even as he stands on the scaffold awaiting execution, that he has not committed treason, and he dies praying for his prince and casting “honour and the world” behind him.
Leidenberch, his fellow conspirator, secretary of the States of Utrecht. He is notoriously a smooth-tongued flatterer and a man who will promise anything; one soldier complains that no suitor ever left him dissatisfied, yet none ever received what he wanted. Lacking the strength to remain silent after the defeat of his forces, he confesses his part in Barnavelt's plot before he is imprisoned. Convinced by Barnavelt that suicide is the only way to preserve some semblance of honor, he resolves to die, then delays a few moments to speak of the pain of leaving his beloved young son, who sleeps nearby.
Modesbargen, another of Barnavelt's followers. He is at first wary of the old statesman's plans and counsels him bluntly not to risk destroying the effects of his forty years of service to the state by giving vent to his ambition. He eventually joins Barnavelt's campaign and is forced to flee to Germany to escape imprisonment. There he grows to love country living and calls himself a fool for participating in political schemes.
Grotius, another of Barnavelt's followers. He, with Hogerbeets, vows to defend the old man against the Prince of Orange, but the discovery of their plot makes their efforts futile.
Hogerbeets, a leader of the Arminians, the sect Barnavelt makes pawns in his attempt to gain power.
Maurice, the Prince of Orange, a just and wise ruler who shares his responsibilities with his council. He restrains his followers, who are eager to vent their justifiable anger against Barnavelt, yet he is strong-willed enough to exert military force when it is necessary to put down rebellion in Utrecht. Although his natural inclination is to be merciful, he finally orders Barnavelt's death to show that law and order are stronger than the corrupt policies of even the wisest of men.
Bredero and Vandort, senators and members of the prince's Council of State. They listen sympathetically to Barnavelt's initial plans, but they soon recognize his ambition for what it is and remain loyal supporters of order and the prince.
William and Henry, loyal supporters of Prince Maurice.
Rockgiles, Barnavelt's chief ally among the burghers.
Acaptain, who makes an impassioned defense of soldiers, whose only honor lies in their obedience and loyalty to their ruler.
Holderus, a scholar, held firmly under control by a group of domineering Dutch women. He supports Barnavelt and flees the advancing army of the prince in terror.
William, Barnavelt's son, who acts as his aide. He brings his father word of Leidenberch's suicide.
Leidenberch's son, a precocious, sensitive boy who looks after his father in prison. He is rather like Christopher Marlowe's Prince Edward and several of William Shake-speare's bright young children.
Boisise and Morier, French ambassadors who go to the prince to protest the death of Barnavelt, whom they have known only as a wise statesman.
Harlem, Leyden, and Utrecht executioners, grotesque humorists. They throw dice to see who is to have the privilege of executing Sir John.