The Town: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Town: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the complexities of family dynamics and individual aspirations within a pioneer community. Central to this analysis is Sayward Wheeler, a strong and nurturing matriarch who strives to support her children, particularly her youngest, Chancey, who is fragile and imaginative. Sayward's attachment to her home and her efforts to maintain a sense of belonging highlight her resilience amid loneliness. Her husband, Portius Wheeler, is portrayed as a shrewd lawyer with ambitions that clash with his agnostic beliefs, ultimately impacting his social standing. The narrative also delves into the lives of their children, each reflecting diverse paths and struggles; for example, Resolve emerges as a prominent figure in politics, while Guerdon's tragic choices lead to turmoil within the family. The characters' relationships and decisions illustrate the interplay of personal and societal expectations, creating a rich tapestry of life in their town. Additionally, the inclusion of secondary characters like Jake Tench and the consequences of their actions, such as the tragic fate of Rosa Tench, further deepen the emotional landscape of the story. This character-driven analysis provides insight into themes of ambition, identity, and the weight of familial obligations within a historical context.
The Town: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Conrad Richter
First published: 1950
Genre: Novel
Locale: Ohio
Plot: Regional
Time: Mid-nineteenth century
Sayward Wheeler, a typical, stout-hearted, firm, and sensible pioneer woman. She is the unquestioned ruler of her large family. She worries most about her youngest child, Chancey, and tries her best to strengthen him in every way she can. When the family moves into a large house in the town, she manages to keep up with her children socially, but she keeps her common touch and is most comfortable among homey things. She plants some trees around the house and becomes attached to them during her lonely old age. In her will, she stipulates that the trees must not be cut down.
Portius Wheeler, Sayward's husband, who hopes for a county judgeship but does not get it because he is an agnostic. He is shrewd in money matters and allows no one to get the better of him in a business deal. He is a popular lawyer and a financial success; he makes his family the richest in town.
Chancey Wheeler, Sayward's youngest child. As a boy, he is very delicate and frail and lives in a dream world of his own making. He leaves home and becomes a newspaperman.
Resolve Wheeler, Sayward's eldest child, who studies law with his father, marries a sensible woman, and becomes governor of the state.
Guerdon Wheeler, one of Sayward's children, who marries a woman of easy virtue and then runs away after killing her lover. His daughter, Guerda, becomes Sayward's favorite.
Huldah Wheeler, Sayward's daughter, who runs away stark naked to a man's house; she claims that gypsies took her clothes. Sayward goes after her and brings her back.
Kinzie Wheeler, Sooth Wheeler, Libby Wheeler, Dezia Wheeler, and Mercy Wheeler, Sayward and Portius' other children.
Jake Tench, a steamboat operator.
Mrs. Jake Tench, a former schoolmistress who has had a child by Portius.
Rosa Tench, Portius' child by Mrs. Tench. She commits suicide.