This chapter
Characters 156
Places 72
The Bute Crawley family struggles with their small inheritance while maintaining a facade of wealth in Hampshire. Meanwhile, Sir Pitt Crawley falls into a state of senile decay at Queen's Crawley, dominated by the butler's daughter, Betsy Horrocks, until a sudden paralytic stroke allows Mrs. Bute to seize control of the estate and expel the Horrocks family.

On stage

Reverend Bute Crawley He accompanies his wife to the Hall after Sir Pitt's stroke and sits down to drink rum with his son while his wife manages the crisis.
Mrs. Bute Crawley She drills her daughters to appear wealthy, monitors the scandals at the Hall from afar, and eventually takes command of Queen's Crawley when Sir Pitt falls ill, expelling Betsy Horrocks.
Sir Pitt Crawley He insults Pitt and Lady Jane during their visit, gives Lady Jane family jewels, and later suffers a stroke after a night of heavy drinking with Horrocks.
Pitt Crawley He visits his father with Lady Jane, is horrified by the felling of his trees and the presence of 'the Ribbons,' and is later summoned when his father falls ill.
Lady Jane (Sir Pitt's wife) She accompanies Pitt to the Hall, plays backgammon with the Baronet, and receives a case of family pearls from him.
Betsy Horrocks She dominates the Hall, is caught by Mrs. Bute attempting to steal from Sir Pitt's desk after his stroke, and is ultimately driven out of the house.
Mr. Horrocks He admits Pitt and Lady Jane to the Hall and later tries to assist the doctor with the stricken Sir Pitt before being cowed by Mrs. Bute.
Jim Crawley He accompanies his parents to the Hall and helps his mother intimidate the Horrocks family while drinking his father's rum.
Martha She participates in her mother's social campaigns to find a husband.
Emma She writes verses for the local newspaper to maintain the family's social standing.
Fanny She performs duets under her mother's rigid drilling.
Matilda (Mrs. Bute's daughter) She performs duets with Fanny.
Hester She initially flatters Betsy's singing but later helps Mrs. Bute find Betsy's hidden 'spoils' to prove her own honesty.
Dr. Gollop He is summoned to Queen's Crawley to bleed the unconscious Sir Pitt.
Mrs. Brown She assists Mrs. Bute in searching Betsy Horrocks' room.
Beddoes He is ordered by Mrs. Bute to guard Betsy and prepare to drive her to jail.

Settings

Queen's Crawley The Crawley family estate, now in a state of 'utter dreariness and ruin' with felled trees, muddy drives, and weedy flower-beds.
The Rectory The home of Reverend Bute Crawley and his family.
Mudbury A nearby town with a branch savings bank and a doctor's house.
Main 38

Amelia Sedley

Also known as: Miss Sedley, Amelia, Miss Emmy, Miss Amelia, the gentle tender-hearted Amelia Sedley, Emmy +40 más

Devoted mother, sensitive, gentle, and prone to quiet grief; she is beloved by men for her soft submission but often judged by women. She raises Georgy with intense affection, clashes with her mother over the child's care, and feels a strange pang of sadness upon hearing that Dobbin might marry.

Rebecca Sharp Close friend and schoolmateMiss Pinkerton StudentMr. Sedley daughterMrs. Sedley daughterLaura Martin mother-figure/protector +34 more

Rebecca Crawley

Also known as: Miss Sharp, Rebecca, Becky, Becky Sharp, Miss Rebecca, the heroine of this work +54 más

Ambitious, witty, manipulative, and socially brilliant; she is indifferent to her son but excels at managing her husband and creditors. She manages the household finances by paying no one, charms the London elite, and manipulates Lord Steyne into providing her with social and financial advantages.

Amelia Sedley Friend and traveling companionMiss Pinkerton Articled pupil and antagonistMiss Pinkerton adversary/former studentAmelia Sedley friend and 'sister'Mr. Sharp daughter +39 more

Miss Pinkerton

Also known as: The Semiramis of Hammersmith, the majestic lady, Semiramis of Hammersmith, friend of Doctor Johnson, correspondent of Mrs. Chapone, pompous old Minerva +7 más

Vindictive and full of information regarding her former pupils. She provides Mrs. Bute with damaging documents and letters regarding Rebecca's father and upbringing.

Miss Jemima Pinkerton SisterMiss Jemima sister/superior

Sambo

Also known as: the black servant, the black footman, Mr. Sambo, Sir, black Sambo, the black footman of Bloomsbury +1 más

A loyal servant who eventually seeks to start his own business. He follows Amelia on her walks and later decides to set up a public-house after being discharged.

Mr. Sedley servant

Miss Swartz

Also known as: Rhoda, the Black Princess, the heiress, Miss Rhoda, the young heiress, the mahogany charmer +1 más

Wealthy, simple-minded, good-natured, and emotionally warm; she is easily flattered by the Osborne sisters. She visits the Osbornes, sings for them, and inadvertently triggers a fight when she discovers Amelia Sedley's name on a piece of music and expresses her affection for her old school friend.

Amelia Sedley devoted friendJane Osborne friendAmelia Sedley Old school friend and admirerGeorge Osborne Infatuated with him

Mrs. Sedley

Also known as: Amelia's mother, mother, the good-natured lady, Mrs. Sed, the laced nightcap, good-natured Mrs. Sedley +8 más

Lacking energy but proud; she is prone to meddling and holds long-term grudges when her authority is questioned. She quarrels bitterly with Amelia after trying to give the baby unapproved medicine and spends her time gossiping with the landlady.

Mr. Sedley wifeJoseph Sedley MotherAmelia Sedley mother

Miss Briggs

Also known as: Arabella, dame de compagnie, poor Arabella, Briggs, honest Briggs, worthy Miss Briggs +11 más

Meek, sentimental, and easily moved to tears of happiness. She continues to serve Miss Crawley and acts as the messenger who delivers the final dismissal to James.

Miss Crawley companion of twenty-three yearsthe writing-master former loverRebecca Sharp renewed friendship; victim of Becky's charmLady Jane Sheepshanks Acquaintance; she is flattered by Lady Jane's recognition of her poetry.

Joseph Sedley

Also known as: Jos, Joseph, Mr. Joseph Sedley, the Indian nabob, Joe, Mr. Joseph +53 más

Vain and boastful; he has reinvented his cowardice at Waterloo into a narrative of heroic military service in India. Mentioned as having returned to India, where he rose to the Revenue Board and provides a yearly allowance to his parents, though he reacts with rage to his father's business schemes.

Amelia Sedley brotherRebecca Sharp Target of her romantic pursuitAmelia Sedley Older brotherGeorge Osborne godbrother and former school rivalRebecca Sharp suitor +15 more

George Osborne, Junior (the baby)

Also known as: Mr. Osborne, George, little Osborne, George Sedley Osborne, the little boy, Lieutenant Osborne +70 más

Delicate, sensitive, imperious, and woman-bred; he strongly resembles his late father in both looks and pride. He is the center of the household's attention, enjoys walks with his grandfather, and receives numerous gifts from his godfather, Dobbin.

Amelia Sedley intended fiancéJohn Sedley godsonWilliam Dobbin close friend and object of Dobbin's loyaltyRebecca Sharp adversary; views her as a social climberCaptain Cannon billiard partner +32 more

Sir Pitt Crawley

Also known as: Sir Something Crawley, the Baronet, Baronet, the M.P., the old gentleman, Sir Pitt +10 más

In his dotage, he has become a vulgar, tobacco-smelling recluse who delights in mocking his 'pious' son and living scandalously with his servants. He insults Pitt and Lady Jane during their visit, gives Lady Jane family jewels, and later suffers a stroke after a night of heavy drinking with Horrocks.

Rebecca Sharp employerMrs. Tinker employerGrizzel husband (widowed)Rosa husband (widowed)Reverend Bute Crawley brother (estranged and mocked) +15 more

Captain William Dobbin

Also known as: Heigh-ho Dobbin, Gee-ho Dobbin, Figs, Old Figs, the grocer's boy, Captain William Dobbin +47 más

Deeply loyal, generous, and selfless; he secretly funds Amelia's lifestyle while pretending the money comes from George's estate. Mentioned as serving in Madras; he sends lavish gifts to the Sedleys and Georgy and is rumored to be marrying Glorvina O'Dowd.

George Osborne devoted friend and protectorReginald Cuff former school rivalAmelia Sedley secret admirerAmelia Sedley silent admirer; feels fatherly pleasure in her happinessGeorge Osborne mentor and financier +11 more

Lady Crawley

Also known as: Lady Crawley, Rosa, my lady, second Lady Crawley, Betsy, Rose +6 más

Feeble and lonely; she 'sold her heart' to marry Sir Pitt. She dies in the country, neglected by everyone except the younger Pitt Crawley.

Sir Pitt Crawley wife (deceased)Pitt Crawley motherRawdon Crawley motherSir Pitt Crawley wife (deceased)Mr. Crawley stepmother +4 more

Lady Southdown

Also known as: Pitt Crawley, Mr. Pitt, the eldest son, stepson, Mr. Pitt Crawley, Miss Crawley +43 más

Exemplary, correct, and haughty; he is deeply embarrassed by his father's vulgarity and the ruinous state of the family estate. He visits his father with Lady Jane, is horrified by the felling of his trees and the presence of 'the Ribbons,' and is later summoned when his father falls ill.

Rawdon Crawley brotherRawdon Crawley brother; was bullied and beaten by him at EtonLady Jane Sheepshanks suitor; is reportedly paying his addresses to herRawdon Crawley aunt; has paid his debts and intends to leave him part of her fortuneRawdon Crawley mutually hostile brother +21 more

Mr. Horrocks

Also known as: Horrocks, the butler, John Horrocks, house-steward

A 'tipsy old wretch' who has become his master's drinking companion. He admits Pitt and Lady Jane to the Hall and later tries to assist the doctor with the stricken Sir Pitt before being cowed by Mrs. Bute.

Betsy Horrocks

Also known as: overdressed woman, Horrocks, butler's daughter, the butler's daughter, Betsy Horrocks, the Ribbons +3 más

Ambitious and haughty; she uses her influence over the aging Sir Pitt to rule the household and dreams of becoming a Baronet's lady. She dominates the Hall, is caught by Mrs. Bute attempting to steal from Sir Pitt's desk after his stroke, and is ultimately driven out of the house.

Mr. Horrocks daughter

Reverend Bute Crawley

Also known as: Buty, the Beast, the parson, Bute Crawley, the Rector, the reverend gentleman +5 más

Disappointed by his small legacy, he remains under the thumb of his domineering wife while maintaining a public image of hospitality. He accompanies his wife to the Hall after Sir Pitt's stroke and sits down to drink rum with his son while his wife manages the crisis.

Martha Crawley husbandSir Pitt Crawley brother and rivalMiss Crawley brother and expectant heirJim Crawley fatherSir Pitt Crawley brother (estranged) +1 more

Rawdon Crawley

Also known as: Sir Pitt's younger brother, the dragoon, the young officer, the blood, dandy about town, Captain Crawley +32 más

Simple-minded but physically affectionate; he has transitioned from a feared officer to a domestic subordinate who deeply loves his son. He acts as Rebecca's 'upper servant,' spends his days bonding with his son, and encounters John Sedley in the park.

Sir Pitt Crawley son (mutually contemptuous)Rebecca Sharp suitorGeorge Osborne gambling acquaintance and social mentorRebecca Sharp husbandRebecca Sharp husband +8 more

Lady Jane (Sir Pitt's wife)

Also known as: Lady Jane Sheepshanks, Lady Jane, the gentle lady, Lady Jane Crawley, the young lady, Lady Jane (Sir Pitt's wife) +1 más

Gentle and patient; she manages to endure the old Baronet's coarse behavior with grace. She accompanies Pitt to the Hall, plays backgammon with the Baronet, and receives a case of family pearls from him.

Pitt Crawley romantic interestPitt Crawley Fiancée; she admires and adores him.Clement William Sister; she secretly loves and pities her 'fallen' brother.Pitt Crawley WifeRebecca Sharp Sister-in-law +1 more

Mrs. Bute Crawley

Also known as: Martha Crawley, Mrs. Crawley, the Rector's wife, Martha MacTavish, Mrs. Bute, the aunt at the Rectory +12 más

One of Bute's 'plain' daughters; an exquisite painter of flowers for charity. She participates in her mother's social campaigns to find a husband.

Miss Pinkerton former pupilMiss Crawley Sister-in-law and self-appointed nurseMiss Briggs Manipulative patronMrs. Firkin Manipulative patronReverend Bute Crawley wife; returns to nurse him +4 more

Miss Maria Osborne

Also known as: Maria, Jane, the elder sister, Miss Osborne, Mrs. Firkin, Firkin +9 más

Compliant with her father's strict household orders. She manages the household's transition into mourning and observes her father's behavior in church.

Frederick Bullock romantic interest/attachedGeorge Osborne sisterWilliam Dobbin sisterGeorge Osborne sisterCaptain William Dobbin potential suitor (in her own mind)

Miss Wirt

Also known as: the vestal governess, raw-boned Vestal, the elegant Miss Wirt, the governess

A fixture of the Osborne household who observes the family's internal dynamics. She dines in silence with the family, noting the empty place set for George.

Miss Osborne governessMiss Maria Osborne governess

Frederick Bullock

Also known as: Mr. Bullock, Frederick Augustus Bullock, Young Fred Bullock, the wag, Mr. Frederick Bullock, Fred Bullock +3 más

Cautious and socially sensitive. He avoids pressing for his marriage to Jane Osborne due to the family's mourning state.

Miss Maria Osborne fiancé/suitor

Mrs. Major O'Dowd

Also known as: Peggy O'Dowd, tattling old harridan, the Major's lady, Peggy, Auralia Margaretta, the jolly lady +10 más

Bold and fiercely loyal. She insults Rebecca in public, calling Rawdon a 'black-leg' (cheater).

Glorvina sisterMajor O'Dowd wife and commanding partnerGlorvina sisterMajor O'Dowd wifeAmelia Sedley Protective and maternal friend

Lieutenant Stubble

Also known as: Stubble, young Stubble, little Stubble

Young and eager. He marches with the regiment, bearing the colors.

Mr. Bowls

Also known as: the large confidential man, the butler, Bowls, the confidential man

Dignified but capable of being shocked by the behavior of the younger Crawleys. He pays James's scandalous hotel bill and discovers the tobacco smoke that leads to James's expulsion.

Mr. Moss

Also known as: acting for Mr. Manasseh

A professional lawyer. He assists in the settlement of Rawdon's debts.

Napoleon

Also known as: Napoleon Bonaparte, the Corsican upstart, French Emperor, Bonaparty, the Corsican wretch, Boney +4 más

The formidable French leader whose advance causes the panic in Brussels. His movements and the rumors of his victory drive the plot and the characters' decisions to flee or stay.

Betty Flanagan

Also known as: buxom Irish servant-girl, honest Irish maid-servant, the Irish servant-lass, the Irish maid-servant, Miss Flannigan, Betty Flanagan

Saucy, idle, and reckless with household supplies. She serves the household and is the subject of Mrs. Sedley's constant supervision and complaints.

Mrs. Clapp

Also known as: the landlady

A friendly neighbor and landlady. She hosts the Sedleys and gossips with Mrs. Sedley in the kitchen.

Sir George Tufto, K.C.B.

Also known as: the General, Sir George Tufto, K.C.B., the dragon

Vain, a self-proclaimed lady-killer. He is mocked by Rebecca and transfers his romantic attentions to Mrs. Brent.

Rebecca Sharp admirer (according to Rebecca)

Mr. Clapp

Also known as: Old Mr. Clapp

Hardworking and humble. He is seen in his shirt-sleeves trimming the garden and watering rose-bushes.

Isidor

Also known as: the Belgian servant, George's servant, the valet, the servant, the lackey, Monsieur Isidor +1 más

Opportunistic and observant; he enjoys his master's terror as it allows him to claim abandoned valuables. He feeds Jos's fears with rumors of disaster, shaves Jos's mustachios, and eventually accompanies him on the flight to Ghent.

Mademoiselle Reine Love interest whom he hopes to impress with stolen jewelry

Lord Bareacres

Also known as: Old Bareacres, the Earl

An aristocrat who attempts to mediate between his wife and Rebecca. He personally visits Rebecca to negotiate for horses but fails. He eventually procures a pair of horses and flees to Ghent.

Countess of Bareacres

Also known as: the Countess, Lady Bareacres

Arrogant and desperate; she is willing to swallow her pride only when her safety is at stake. She is forced to beg Rebecca for horses to escape the city, suffering public humiliation when Rebecca mocks her predicament.

Lady Blanche Thistlewood

Also known as: Lady Blanche

Vain and condescending toward 'vulgar' women. She waltzes with George but treats Amelia with visible contempt during dinner.

Duke of Wellington

Also known as: the leader, the Juke, his Grace, the Duke, Milor Duke

The British commander. Rumored to be a prisoner, though later confirmed to have repulsed the French.

Clement William

Also known as: Lord Southdown, Lord Wolsey, the fourth Earl of Southdown, young Lord Southdown

Good-natured, talkative, and generous; he enjoys buying gifts for others. He suggests various dogs for Rebecca and gifts a Shetland pony to young Rawdon.

Rebecca Sharp Social acquaintance

Lord Steyne

Also known as: the Marquis, the great Lord of Steyne

A wealthy, cynical, and powerful nobleman with a predatory interest in Rebecca; he is physically imposing with red hair and buck-teeth. He frequents Rebecca's house, mocks Rawdon, and encourages Rebecca to hire a 'sheep-dog' companion.

Rebecca Sharp Wealthy benefactor and flirtatious admirer
Secondary 118

Manager of the Performance

Also known as: the manager, the Manager, the performer, the moralist

Self-aware and critical; he views himself as a fellow sinner among his audience. He interrupts the narrative to explain his authorial philosophy and his intent to punish his 'villainous' characters.

Tom Fool

Also known as: poor Tom Fool, yonder behind the waggon

A weary performer and family man who works as a tumbler. He is seen washing off his face paint and eating dinner with his family behind the scenes.

Jack Puddings family member

Jack Puddings

Also known as: little Jack Puddings, the little Jack Puddings

A child performer belonging to a family of tumblers. He sits behind the canvas with Tom Fool during dinner.

Tom Fool family member

Becky Puppet

Also known as: famous little Becky Puppet

Described as uncommonly flexible in the joints and lively on the wire. Mentioned by the Manager as one of the lead puppets in the upcoming show.

Amelia Doll

Carved and dressed with great care, though she has a smaller circle of admirers than Becky. Mentioned by the Manager as a carefully crafted figure in the performance.

Wicked Nobleman

Also known as: richly dressed figure of the Wicked Nobleman

A richly dressed figure representing high-status villainy. Mentioned as a character who will be taken away by Old Nick at the end of the play.

Old Nick adversary/victim

Old Nick

A figure representing the devil or a collector of souls. Mentioned as the one who will fetch away the Wicked Nobleman.

Wicked Nobleman captor

Miss Jemima Pinkerton

Also known as: Miss Jemima, Jemima, the elder sister, Honest Jemima, Miss Jemmy, the astonished Miss Jemima

Good-humored, foolishly kind, and generous. She is mentioned as the target of Rebecca's mockery despite her previous kindness.

Miss Pinkerton Sister and subordinateMiss Pinkerton sister/subordinate

Laura Martin

Also known as: little Laura Martin, the orphan

A young orphan student who is deeply attached to Amelia. She follows Amelia around and promises to call her 'Mamma' in her letters.

Amelia Sedley devoted admirer

Miss Saltire

Also known as: Lord Dexter's granddaughter

A high-born but somewhat shabby and haughty student. She asks Amelia to send letters to her via her grandfather to save on postage.

Doctor Johnson

Also known as: the great Lexicographer, Samuel Johnson

A famous historical figure whose past visit to the school is the source of Miss Pinkerton's prestige. Mentioned as the author of the dictionary and the school's patron spirit.

Mr. Sharp

Also known as: Rebecca's father

A clever, dissolute artist, prone to drunkenness and debt. Described in backstory as the man who taught Rebecca her wit and social survival skills before dying of delirium tremens.

Rebecca Sharp father

Rebecca's Mother

Also known as: the opera-girl

A French opera dancer of humble origins. Mentioned as the source of Rebecca's French fluency and the subject of Rebecca's lies about noble Gascon ancestry.

Rebecca Sharp motherMr. Sharp wife

Reverend Mr. Crisp

Also known as: Mr. Crisp, darling boy

Infatuated and easily led. Mentioned in a backstory regarding a scandalous intercepted note he sent to Rebecca.

Bonamy

A member of the service in India. Mentioned by Joseph as an excuse to leave the house and avoid the ladies.

Mulligatawney

A magistrate at Budgebudge and a friend of Joseph. Mentioned in Joseph's story about a past romantic pursuit in India.

Joseph Sedley Friend and colleague

Mrs. Blenkinsop

Also known as: the housekeeper, Blenkinsop, Honest old Mrs. Blenkinsop

Extremely loyal and devoted to the Sedley family. She refuses to leave the Sedleys despite their ruin and follows them to their humble new home.

Dr. Gollop

Also known as: apothecary, Gollop the apothecary, the Doctor, the Doctor from Mudbury

The local physician. He is summoned to Queen's Crawley to bleed the unconscious Sir Pitt.

Reginald Cuff

Also known as: Cuff, the Cock of the School, the unquestioned king of the school, the bully

A dashing, athletic, and arrogant school bully who is talented in Latin and French but uses his status to tyrannize younger boys. He bullies George Osborne and is subsequently defeated by Dobbin in a thirteen-round boxing match, later showing magnanimity by taking the blame.

William Dobbin defeated rival turned respectful peer

Dr. Swishtail

Also known as: the Doctor

The headmaster of the academy, described as somewhat intimidated by his top students. He presides over the school and awards Dobbin a prize-book for his academic progress.

Lady Dobbin

Socially active wife of the Alderman. Mentioned by Mrs. Sedley as being at Highbury with her daughters.

William Dobbin mother

Mr. Brush

Also known as: Jos's man, the valet

Solemn, correct, and grave; possesses the 'gravity of an undertaker.' He attends to the hungover Joseph and reports his master's wild behavior to George Osborne.

Pinner

Also known as: the maid

Observant servant. Mentioned by Mrs. Blenkinsop as having seen Rebecca snooping through drawers.

Simpson

Also known as: the gentle Simpson, kind smiling idiot

A well-known, simple-minded figure at Vauxhall. Mentioned as the presiding spirit of Vauxhall Gardens.

Mrs. Salmon

A singer. Mentioned as performing a cantata at the gardens.

Mrs. Tinker

Also known as: Tinker, old Tinker, Mrs. Charwoman

Sullen, blunt, and accustomed to the Baronet's miserly ways; she acts as a servant and temporary companion to Sir Pitt. She fetches tobacco for Sir Pitt, shares a meal with him, and chaperones Rebecca during her night in London.

Sir Pitt Crawley servant/charwoman

Walpole Crawley

Also known as: Sir Walpole Crawley

A 'jolly fellow' and former baronet who was fined for peculation. Mentioned as the ancestor whose legal troubles and extravagance led to the family's current financial embarrassment.

Sir Pitt Crawley father

Miss Rose Crawley

Also known as: Miss Rose Crawley, Miss Rose

Fond of books and light literature; more studious than her sister. She reads French and English novels with Rebecca, often hiding the scandalous nature of the books from her brother.

Violet Crawley sister

Miss Violet Crawley

Also known as: Miss Violet Crawley, Miss Violet

Rude, boisterous, and adventurous; a tomboy who enjoys riding colts and robbing nests. She is managed by Rebecca through a system of bribes and kept secrets regarding her various 'peccadilloes'.

Young Cantab

Also known as: Master Jack

A student from Cambridge who is friendly and enjoys mocking Sir Pitt. He offers Rebecca his coat during the rain and takes over driving the coach to spite Sir Pitt.

Mr. Hodson

Also known as: Hodson

Sir Pitt's hind or farm manager. He rides in the carriage with Sir Pitt, discusses farm business, and whips two local boys for gathering sticks.

Peter Butt

A young man who turned to smuggling and poaching after being rejected by Rose Dawson. Mentioned as the man Rose gave up to marry Sir Pitt.

Lady Crawley former lover

Lord Binkie

Also known as: the noble Binkie

A nobleman and diplomat; grandfather and patron to Pitt Crawley. Mentioned as the person who introduced Pitt to public life and served as his employer.

Pitt Crawley grandfather and patron

Mr. Glauber

Also known as: the young doctor, the country apothecary

A country surgeon who is easily rebuffed. He proposes marriage to Rebecca and is promptly rejected.

Sir Huddleston Fuddleston

A local baronet who wheezes at dinner. He attends the dinner parties at the Hall and is slighted by Miss Crawley in favor of Rebecca.

Miss Tuffin

An eighteen-year-old scholar proficient in many languages including Syriac. Recommended by Miss Pinkerton as a potential governess for Lady Fuddleston.

Miss Letitia Hawky

A twenty-nine-year-old scholar with red hair and a pitted face. Recommended by Miss Pinkerton as a less 'objectionable' (less attractive) governess option.

Flethers

Rawdon's servant. Mentioned as causing trouble in the housekeeper's room.

Rawdon Crawley valet

Captain Cannon

A military man and social companion of George Osborne. Mentioned as the person George is playing billiards with while Amelia waits for him.

George Osborne friend and billiard partner

Ensign Spooney

Also known as: Spooney

A tall youth in the Grenadier Company. He tries on a new bearskin cap and writes home to his parents before the regiment's departure.

Cackle

Also known as: the assistant-surgeon, Assistant M.D. of Edinburgh

Pretentious and fond of showing off his literary knowledge. He attempts to quiz Amelia on literature and French during the party.

Mr. Chopper

Also known as: the father's head man, chief clerk, Chopper, the chief clerk, the functionary, Thomas Chopper, Esquire

A loyal and jovial clerk who respects the house of Osborne but enjoys the perks of military company. He witnesses Mr. Osborne's fit of rage, assists in the signing of the new will, and dines with Dobbin at the Slaughters'.

Captain William Dobbin dinner guest and admirer

Mr. Hicks

Also known as: the butler, Hicks

The Osborne family butler. He is ordered to serve Champagne and later to call a coach for George.

Mr. Quill

Also known as: the cashier

Benevolent-looking but cynical. Winks at his colleague regarding Mr. Sedley's financial 'no go' status.

Mr. Driver

Also known as: the clerk at the desk

Cynical clerk. Confirms the dire financial status of Mr. Sedley to Mr. Quill.

the writing-master

Also known as: hectic young writing-master

A man with yellow hair and illegible handwriting who died years ago. Mentioned as the object of Miss Briggs's long-lost affection.

Miss Briggs former lover

Miss Toady

Obsequious and socially calculating. Mentioned by the narrator as an example of the social climbing found in Vanity Fair.

Mrs. Briefless

Poor but of good family. Mentioned as the target of Miss Toady's flattery due to her grandfather's health.

Betty Martin

Also known as: Betty, upstairs maid

A simple maid from Hampshire who is easily bribed. She discovers Rebecca's empty room and the letter on the pincushion, having been bribed by Rebecca to assist in the secret arrangements.

Mr. Hammerdown

Also known as: the auctioneer, the orator

Loud, eloquent, and persuasive. He conducts the auction of the Sedley estate with theatrical flair.

Edward Dale

Also known as: Mr. Dale, Edward

A potential suitor for Amelia mentioned by her mother. Mentioned as a better alternative to George Osborne.

Amelia Sedley Former suitor

Mr. Lewis

Also known as: representative of Mr. Davids

A professional lawyer. He negotiates with Rebecca in London and compliments her business acumen.

Miss Ann Dobbin

Also known as: Ann

Sarcastic and prone to gossiping with her sisters. She mocks Dobbin's infatuation with Amelia and suggests he marry her himself.

William Dobbin sister

Miss Bullock

Also known as: Miss B.

A 'strong-minded' woman used as a foil to Amelia's fragility. Referenced by the narrator as someone who would not let her heart break over a man.

Mr. Clump

Also known as: the apothecary

Bland, observant, and professional; more concerned with his 'two hundred a year' than the patient's actual comfort. He advises Mrs. Bute to take Miss Crawley out for fresh air to prevent her death (and the loss of his fees).

Dr. Squills

Also known as: the physician

Cynical and clinical; evaluates Rebecca's physical 'development' and predicts Miss Crawley's demise. He consults with Clump and warns that Mrs. Bute's management will kill the patient.

Mrs. Stokes

Also known as: the landlady

Communicative and gossipy. She tells Mrs. Bute about the dissolute life of Mr. Sharp and Rebecca's childhood in Greek Street.

the poodle

Also known as: zoggy, pretty pet

A pampered pet used as a distraction. Occupies a seat in the carriage during the confrontation in the Park.

John of the Tapioca

Also known as: blear-eyed old attendant

A weary, humble servant in a dismal establishment. He serves the patrons of the Tapioca Coffee-house.

Mrs. Haggistoun

Also known as: Colonel Haggistoun's widow

A social guardian and ward-manager. She is offered a five thousand pound bribe by Mr. Osborne to facilitate the marriage between George and Rhoda.

Miss Swartz chaperone and relativeMiss Swartz Chaperon and guardian

Major Wagstaff

An acquaintance of Dobbin. Mentioned by Dobbin as someone he would send wedding cake to.

John (waiter)

A servant at the coffee-house. He serves curacao to George Osborne at the Slaughters' Coffee-house.

Miss Mary Clapp

A child in the street. Used in a metaphor by the narrator to illustrate how people follow money.

Peggy sister

Mr. Higgs

Also known as: Higgs, S. HIGGS, the lawyer

Cool, professional, and cynical; he has a low opinion of George's financial future. He processes George's request for his two thousand pounds and predicts George will end up in jail.

the old General

Also known as: the Colonel, the General

A feeble veteran of the Quebec campaign who prefers old military history to modern triumphs. He breakfasts with Dobbin and provides the advance warning that the regiment is moving to Belgium.

Mr. Birch

Also known as: Birch

A clerk. He witnesses Mr. Osborne's new will.

George's valet

Also known as: Trotter, the valet, George's man

Supercilious and condescending toward those he deems social inferiors. He escorts Amelia to Fulham and receives a tip from Mr. Sedley with a mixture of wonder and contempt.

George Osborne servant

Mr. Poe

Also known as: Poe

Observant clerk. He assists Mr. Higgs with the release papers and gossips about seeing George with a woman after the play.

Mr. Higgs clerk

Mr. Kean

A famous actor. He is mentioned as performing the role of Shylock, which George goes to see.

Major O'Dowd

Also known as: Meejor O'Dowd, Mick, Major Michael O'Dowd, the Major, O'Dowd

Placid, dutiful, and fond of his rest and a quiet tumbler of punch. He prepares for the march, sleeps soundly before the assembly, and leads the regiment out of Brussels on his charger, Pyramus.

Mrs. O'Dowd husband

Mrs. Kirk

Strictly religious and judgmental; a follower of Dr. Ramshorn. She questions Amelia's spiritual state and gives her several religious tracts to read.

Mrs. Magenis

Also known as: Fanny Magenis

Uneducated but sharp-tongued; prone to bragging about her family's status. She attends the party and gossips with Mrs. Bunny about George Osborne's past.

Mrs. Bunny

Frequently pregnant; a member of the regiment's social circle. She listens to Mrs. Magenis's gossip about George and Amelia.

Ensign Simple

Also known as: Simple

Obedient and junior. He is sent on an errand by Mrs. O'Dowd to secure a dinner invitation for Jos Sedley.

Old Cutler

Also known as: the Doctor

A military physician fond of professional jokes. He attends the evening party and makes jokes about the new bride.

Captain Porter

An officer of the 150th regiment. He helps Dobbin escort the intoxicated Jos Sedley back to the hotel.

Glorvina

The sister of Mrs. O'Dowd. Mentioned by Mrs. O'Dowd as the woman she originally intended for George Osborne.

Mrs. Major O'Dowd sister

the postilion

Also known as: Viscount

The son of a bankrupt Imperial General who now drives a diligence. He drives the narrator and accepts a pennyworth of beer.

Lord Uxbridge

Elegant nobleman. Seen riding in the park with the Duke's entourage.

Pauline

Also known as: the bonne, the cook, maid-of-all-work

A loyal servant and emotional young woman. She prays for her lover at church and later hides him in the kitchen, feeding him while he recounts the battle.

Mademoiselle Reine

Also known as: Reine

The object of Isidor's affection. Mentioned as the intended recipient of the jewelry Isidor plans to steal from Jos.

Isidor Love interest

Regulus Van Cutsum

Also known as: Regulus, young Van Cutsum, the hussar, Pauline's admirer

A Belgian hussar who lacks military courage; more interested in food and safety than glory. He deserts his regiment and returns to Pauline's kitchen in Brussels, where he tells exaggerated stories of the British army's total destruction, further panicking Jos.

Pauline lover

Tom Stubble

Also known as: young Tom Stubble, the young ensign, the wounded lad

Gallant and simple-hearted; he is deeply grateful to Dobbin and Osborne. He is brought back to Brussels wounded after defending the colors. He provides Amelia with the first reliable news that George and Dobbin survived the initial engagement at Quatre Bras.

Duke of Brunswick

A military leader. Reported killed in the battle.

Lady Emily

Also known as: the authoress of the Washerwoman of Finchley Common

Enthusiastic, judgmental, and a prolific writer of religious tracts. She pushes for an immediate and aggressive spiritual conversion of Miss Crawley, much to Pitt's alarm.

Mr. Waxy

Also known as: the solicitor, Waxy

A solicitor. He comes to Brighton to ratify the marriage deeds and settlement for Pitt and Lady Jane.

James Crawley

Also known as: Jim, the young Oxonian, the young gentleman, the scholar, the modest boy, Jim Crawley +1 más

A college student with debts who enjoys hunting and drinking. He accompanies his parents to the Hall and helps his mother intimidate the Horrocks family while drinking his father's rum.

Reverend Bute Crawley SonMrs. Bute Crawley Son

Tutbury Pet

Also known as: the Tutbury champion

A professional boxer. He meets James on the coach and drinks with him at the inn, contributing to James's bad reputation.

Rottingdean Fibber

Also known as: the Rottingdean man

A professional boxer. He drinks with James at the Tom Cribb's Arms.

Duchess of X

Also known as: Madame the Duchess of X

A French noblewoman who spent time in England. She writes a letter to Miss Crawley praising Rebecca, which inadvertently enrages the old lady.

Sir William Dobbin

Also known as: the Alderman, the ambassador

Hesitant and intimidated by Mr. Osborne's grief. He delivers the final letter from George to Mr. Osborne in Russell Square.

The Sergeant

Also known as: the desired officer

Respectful and knowledgeable about the regiment's actions. He acts as a guide for Mr. Osborne, taking him through the battlefields of Waterloo and Quatre Bras.

Mary Box

Also known as: little Mary, the landlord's little girl

A favorite of Amelia's. She acts as a 'mistress of ceremonies' to introduce Major Dobbin when he visits Amelia at the Clapps' house.

Mrs. Grundy

Also known as: I

A personification of the judgmental, observant world. The narrator uses this figure to represent the collective curiosity of society regarding how people afford their lifestyles.

Jenkins

Also known as: Commissioner of the Tape and Sealing Wax Office

A man living far beyond his means on a fixed salary. Used as an example of the 'living on nothing' phenomenon in Vanity Fair.

Miss Flint husband

Miss Flint

Also known as: Mrs. Jenkins

One of eleven children from a small squire's family. Mentioned as Jenkins' wife who brings no fortune to the marriage.

Green

Also known as: young Green, Green of the Rifles

An unfortunate young officer. A victim of Rawdon's gambling who loses a considerable sum at the Crawleys' house.

Colonel O'Dowd

Also known as: the infantry Colonel

Protective of his junior officers and blunt. He warns Lieutenant Spooney about the Crawleys and has a violent public argument with Rawdon at a cafe.

Mrs. Brent

Also known as: the beetle-browed wife

The new object of General Tufto's affection. She replaces Rebecca as the recipient of the General's gifts and attention.

Mademoiselle Genevieve

Also known as: French maid

Negligent and easily distracted by romance. She nearly allows young Rawdon to drown while she is distracted by a soldier in Calais.

Charles Raggles

Also known as: Raggles, Mr. Landlord

A former butler who is industrious, frugal, and intensely loyal to the Crawley family to his own detriment. He purchases the lease of the Curzon Street house and allows the Crawleys to live there without paying rent, eventually leading to his financial ruin and imprisonment.

Miss Crawley Former servantMrs. Raggles Husband

Mrs. Raggles

Also known as: the late cook

A former cook for Miss Crawley who helped her husband build a greengrocery business. She manages the kitchen for the Crawleys' dinner parties while her husband acts as butler.

Charles Raggles Wife

Corporal Clink

Also known as: Clink

A veteran of Waterloo and former subordinate of Rawdon. He facilitates the meeting between Rawdon and John Sedley in the park.

Rawdon Crawley Former soldier under his command

Dolly

Also known as: the housemaid

Compassionate and hardworking. She comforts little Rawdon in the night and takes care of him in the nursery.

Rawdon minor Caretaker

Dr. Pestler

Also known as: Mr. Pestler, the medical man

A soft-hearted physician who becomes highly successful and fashionable over the years. He attends to Georgy's illnesses and observes Amelia's intense maternal devotion.

Mr. Linton

Also known as: the young assistant

A personable young gentleman and 'slave' to Amelia's charm. He provides extra care and treats for Georgy, often visiting without charging fees.

Reverend Mr. Binny

Also known as: Mr. Binny, Beilby

Mild and genteel. He proposes marriage to Amelia but is gently rejected as she remains devoted to George's memory.

Miss Binny

Also known as: the elderly virgin

Critical and jealous of Amelia's popularity with men. She disparages Amelia's character to her brother, preferring the wealthy Miss Grits.

Reverend Mr. Binny sister

Chevalier de Talonrouge

Also known as: the little French chevalier

Powdered, courteous, and gallant; an old-fashioned French exile. He expresses hyperbolic admiration for Amelia, calling her a 'divine creature.'

Misses Dobbin

Also known as: the sisters

Patronizing but kind-hearted. They take Amelia and Georgy for drives in their carriage and deliver the news of William's supposed engagement.

Major Dobbin sisters

Glorvina O'Dowd

Also known as: Miss Glorvina O'Dowd

Beautiful and accomplished. Mentioned as the woman Major Dobbin is expected to marry in India.

Major Dobbin rumored fiancée

Mr. Woolsey

Also known as: military tailor

Professional tailor. He arrives to measure Georgy for a new suit of clothes on Dobbin's orders.

Emma

One of Bute's daughters; a poet known as the 'County Bulbul.' She writes verses for the local newspaper to maintain the family's social standing.

Fanny de Butterbrod

One of Bute's daughters; a singer. She performs duets under her mother's rigid drilling.

Matilda (Mrs. Bute's daughter)

One of Bute's daughters; a singer. She performs duets with Fanny.

Hester

Also known as: the little kitchen-maid, little maid

A 'genteel sycophant' who flatters Betsy Horrocks until the power shift, at which point she immediately betrays her. She initially flatters Betsy's singing but later helps Mrs. Bute find Betsy's hidden 'spoils' to prove her own honesty.

Mrs. Brown

A servant at the Hall. She assists Mrs. Bute in searching Betsy Horrocks' room.

Beddoes

A servant at the Hall. He is ordered by Mrs. Bute to guard Betsy and prepare to drive her to jail.

Main 13

Russell Square

The large, gloomy, and respectable residence of Mr. Osborne, filled with expensive plate and mournful echoes.

Great Gaunt Street

A gloomy London street characterized by tall houses with hatchments, where death seems to reign perpetual.

Queen's Crawley

The family estate of the Crawleys, featuring an old library filled with 18th-century literature and extensive grounds including shrubberies and farms.

Mudbury

A location four miles from Queen's Crawley where the family carriage meets the stagecoach.

Pumpernickel

A small German duchy located in a happy valley along the Pump River, known for its Court, mineral springs, and theatre.

Park Lane

Miss Crawley's London residence, currently darkened and silenced by Mrs. Bute's orders.

Brompton

The location of the small, comfortable lodgings where Rawdon and Rebecca live in secret.

Hyde Park

A public park in London where the elite gather to see and be seen.

Slaughters' Coffee-house

A London establishment in St. Martin's Lane where Jos and Dobbin stay.

Fulham

The location of the humble cottage where the ruined Sedleys now reside.

Brighton

A seaside town where Miss Crawley is recovering and where the struggle for her inheritance takes place.

Brussels

A city in a state of total chaos, filled with fleeing aristocrats, praying women, and wounded soldiers.

Paris

The center of social life in 1815-16, filled with international military and aristocratic figures.

Secondary 59

Vanity Fair

Chiswick Mall

Miss Pinkerton's Academy

Soho

Boggley Wollah

Vauxhall

Dr. Swishtail’s Academy

Thames Street

Vauxhall Gardens

Joseph Sedley's Lodgings

The Trafalgar Coach

Leakington

The Rectory

Queen's Crawley (The Hall)

The Osborne House

Cheltenham

Chatham Barracks

Mr. Osborne's House

Hulker & Bullock's Bank

Old Slaughters'

St. Adelaide Villas

The Sedleys' New House

The Slaughters'

Chatham

Minerva House

Greek Street

The Sedley's Cottage

Tapioca Coffee-house

Chapel near Fulham Road

Ship Inn

London

The Study

The Beach at Brighton

Hotel in Cavendish Square

Bedford Row

Lombard Street

The Inn at Chatham

Mrs. O'Dowd's Quarters

Ostend

Bruges

Ghent

The Park, Brussels

Brussels Opera-house

The Duchess's Ball

Hotel du Parc

Jos Sedley’s Lodgings

The Parc

Waterloo

The Albany

Queen's Crawley Rectory

Tom Cribb's Arms

Waterloo and Quatre Bras

Laeken

Curzon Street, May Fair

Calais

Fleet Prison

Bengal

Denmark Hill

The Tavern Club