Uncle Silas: A Tale of Bartram-Haugh: Analysis of Major Characters
"Uncle Silas: A Tale of Bartram-Haugh" is a gothic novel that explores themes of inheritance, trust, and the dynamics of family relationships through its complex characters. The story revolves around Maud Ruthyn, a wealthy heiress who moves in with her uncle Silas after her father's death. Silas is depicted as a reclusive and suspicious man, rumored to have committed a murder in the past. As Maud navigates her new living situation, she faces threats not only from her uncle but also from her cruel cousin Dudley, who seeks to marry her and ultimately resorts to violence in his pursuit of her wealth.
The narrative delves into Maud's struggle between her familial loyalty and her instinct for self-preservation, as she uncovers the sinister intentions of those around her. The character of Mme de la Rougierre, Maud's governess, adds further intrigue as she becomes complicit in the malevolent schemes against Maud. Other characters, such as the benevolent Dr. Bryerly and the trustworthy Lord Ilbury, serve as foils to the darker elements of the story. The interplay between these diverse characters creates a rich tapestry that raises questions of morality, power, and the nature of evil, making it a compelling read for those interested in psychological and gothic fiction.
Uncle Silas: A Tale of Bartram-Haugh: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
First published: 1864
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Gothic
Time: Nineteenth century
Austin Ruthyn, a wealthy recluse and widower. He is a Swedenborgian who devotes his time to scientific and literary studies. When he dies, his will appoints several men as trustees for his estate and places his daughter Maud under the guardianship of his brother Silas.
Maud Ruthyn, a wealthy heiress. She goes to live with her uncle Silas, believing she is to vindicate her uncle's good name. She is disturbed by her uncle's idiosyncrasies but even more by the attentions of her coarse cousin, who wishes to marry her. She is tricked into being made a prisoner, and her cousin and uncle try to murder her to inherit her wealth. The attempt fails. Later, she marries Lord Ilbury, one of the trustees of her estate.
Silas Ruthyn, Maud's uncle. According to rumor, he has killed a Mr. Charke, to whom he owes a large sum of money. When his attempt to marry Maud to his son fails, he and the young man attempt to murder Maud to inherit her wealth. The attempt fails, and Silas commits suicide.
Dudley Ruthyn, Maud's cousin, a coarse, cruel man. He courts Maud but fails to win her. When he tries to murder Maud, he kills Mme de la Rougierre by mistake. After the murder, he disappears. His attempts to court Maud end following his marriage to a lower-class woman named Sarah Mangles.
Mme de la Rougierre, Maud's governess. She becomes an accomplice of Silas and Dudley in their attempted murder, only to be killed herself.
Dr. Bryerly, Austin Ruthyn's doctor and friend. He is one of the trustees of Maud's estate.
Lady Monica Knollys, a cousin of Austin Ruthyn, who tries to warn him and Maud against Mme de la Rougierre.
Lord Ilbury, also known as Mr. Carysbrook. He is one of the trustees of Maud's estate and marries Maud.
Milly Ruthyn, Maud's cousin. She is a loud, good-humored girl who becomes Maud's friend. She grows up to marry a minister.
Sir William Aylmer and Mr. Penrose Cresswell, other trustees of Maud's estate.
Mary Quince, Maud's maid.
Meg Hawkes, a miller's daughter who befriends Maud.
Tom Brice, a servant who loves Meg Hawkes and saves Maud from her uncle and cousin.