The Toilers of the Sea: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Toilers of the Sea: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate dynamics between several key figures in Victor Hugo's novel, set against the backdrop of the Isle of Guernsey. Central to the narrative is Gilliatt, a reclusive young man who, despite being viewed with suspicion by his community, displays remarkable courage and selflessness. His journey involves rescuing his friend Mess Lethierry's fortune and ultimately sacrificing his own chance at happiness with Deruchette, Lethierry's beautiful niece, whom he loves. Lethierry, a shipowner beset by betrayal and misfortune, strives to reclaim his lost wealth through a steamboat, only to face treachery from his captain, Sieur Clubin. The captain's actions lead to catastrophic consequences, further complicating the relationships among the characters. Meanwhile, Ebenezer Caudray, the new rector, also loves Deruchette, creating a tense love triangle. Through these characters, the narrative examines themes of sacrifice, honor, and the harsh realities of human relationships in a maritime setting. The story culminates in poignant acts of generosity and tragic fate, leaving readers to reflect on the complexities of love and loyalty.
The Toilers of the Sea: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Victor Hugo
First published: Les Travailleurs de la mer, 1866 (English translation, 1866)
Genre: Novel
Locale: The Isle of Guernsey
Plot: Sentimental
Time: The 1820's
Gilliatt (zheel-YAHT), a young recluse living on the Isle of Guernsey and looked on with suspicion by most of his fellow parishioners. He saves his friend's fortune with great difficulty and nobly gives up to another the promised reward of marriage to the girl he loves. Finally, sitting on the very rock from which he once rescued his now successful rival, he lets himself be drowned by the high tide.
Mess Lethierry (leh-tyeh-REE), a shipowner and Gilliatt's friend. His partner having run away with his money, Lethierry attempts to recoup his fortune by buying a steamboat. His treacherous captain sinks it, but Gilliatt succeeds in salvaging the valuable engine.
Deruchette (day-rew-SHEHT), Lethierry's beautiful niece, whom Gilliatt loves.
Ebenezer Caudray (EHB-eh-nee-zur), the new rector. His love for Deruchette is returned. After she is promised to Gilliatt by Lethierry, Deruchette and Caudray are frustrated in their attempt to marry secretly, but Gilliatt's generosity unites them.
Rantaine (rahn-TEHN), Lethierry's absconding former partner.
Sieur Clubin (syewr klew-BAN), the captain of Lethierry's steamboat, a man widely noted for honesty. Clubin takes Lethierry's stolen money from Rantaine at gunpoint. Having arranged to be picked up by smugglers, he sinks Lethierry's steamboat; his scheme is to escape with the money and leave a reputation for heroism as one who “stayed with the ship.” He grounds the ship in the wrong place and is, in fact, drowned. Later, his plotting is discovered. Gilliatt, in salvaging the steam engine, also retrieves the money from Clubin's body.