Zuleika Dobson: Or, An Oxford Love Story: Analysis of Major Characters
"Zuleika Dobson: Or, An Oxford Love Story" centers around the enchanting Zuleika Dobson, a young woman who captivates the hearts of numerous Oxford undergraduates but can only love a man who does not reciprocate her feelings. The narrative explores the tragic consequences of unrequited love, as Zuleika’s allure leads to a series of suicides among those infatuated with her, including the wealthy Duke of Dorset, who, despite initially believing he can escape his fate, ultimately succumbs to a familial tradition of suicide. Another character, Noaks, an impoverished student, also follows this tragic path, believing that his own love story is doomed when he feels unreciprocated feelings from Katie Batch, the daughter of the Duke's landlady. The Warden of Judas College, Zuleika's grandfather, unwittingly triggers the ensuing chaos with his visit. Through these characters, the story delves into themes of desire, despair, and the intricate dynamics of love within a society steeped in tradition. The narrative's absurdity highlights the often tragic intersection of love and societal expectations, making it a poignant commentary on the human condition.
Zuleika Dobson: Or, An Oxford Love Story: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Max Beerbohm
First published: 1911
Genre: Novel
Locale: Oxford, England
Plot: Satire
Time: Early twentieth century
Zuleika Dobson, a bewitching young woman with whom all the Oxford undergraduates fall in love. She can love only a man who will not love her. After all the young Oxonians have committed suicide for love of her, Zuleika takes a train for Cambridge and another try for a man she can love. She earns her living as a magician.
The Duke of Dorset, a rich young English aristocrat in love with Zuleika. When she pours a pitcher of water on his head, he believes he is released from his vow to commit suicide for her. When a strange bird sings, heralding a death in his family, he commits suicide anyway, rather than break a tradition. He throws himself in the river and drowns.
Noaks, an impecunious student. Zuleika thinks she can love him, because he does not love her. Noaks, however, commits suicide by jumping out a window because he thinks Katie Batch does not love him.
Katie Batch, the pretty daughter of the Duke of Dorset's landlady. She tells Zuleika that the duke committed suicide out of respect for tradition, not love for Zuleika.
The Warden of Judas College, Zuleika's grandfather. Her visit to see him at Oxford sets off the whole absurd chain of events.