"Decline and Fall" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the novel "Decline and Fall" by Evelyn Waugh, the characters play various roles that drive the narrative forward and contribute to the themes of social satire and cultural decline. Paul Pennyfeather serves as the protagonist, navigating through a series of absurd and comical situations. Margot Beste-Chetwynde appears as the love interest, blending charm and mystery. Grimes takes on the role of the antagonist, creating conflicts for Paul. Other characters, such as Prendy and Captain Alastair Digby-Vane-Trumper, contribute as friends or acquaintances who shape the protagonist's experiences.

Character Descriptions

Paul Pennyfeather:

Paul Pennyfeather, the protagonist of "Decline and Fall," is a young, naive, and academically-oriented individual. With his glasses and scholarly appearance, Paul finds himself thrown into unexpected situations, leading to a disarray of his life. He is often portrayed as innocent and unassuming, making him vulnerable to the whims and antics of those around him.

Margot Beste-Chetwynde:

Margot Beste-Chetwynde is an enigmatic and attractive figure who captures Paul Pennyfeather's attention. She is described as a sophisticated and mysterious woman, always leaving an air of uncertainty surrounding her true intentions. Margot's striking presence and allure make her a pivotal character in Paul's life and contribute to the complexity of the story.

Grimes:

Grimes serves as the primary antagonist in "Decline and Fall." He is a fellow student, known for his boisterous behavior and questionable ethical standards. Grimes continually reveals Paul's vulnerability and inexperience, leading to conflicts and confrontations that shape the course of the story. His relentless pursuit to cause trouble for Paul adds tension and fuels the comedic elements of the narrative.

Prendy:

Prendy is one of Paul's few friends in the novel. As a fellow student, Prendy provides a sense of camaraderie and support to Paul during his trials and tribulations. He is characterized as intelligent, witty, and often offers advice or serves as a sounding board for Paul's thoughts and actions.

Character Traits

Paul Pennyfeather:

• Naive
• Innocent
• Scholarly
• Trusting
• Determined

Margot Beste-Chetwynde:

• Mysterious
• Attractive
• Charming
• Manipulative
• Sophisticated

Grimes:

• Boisterous
• Troublemaker
• Unethical
• Conniving
• Mischievous

Prendy:

• Intelligent
• Witty
• Loyal
• Supportive
• Rational

Character Background

Paul Pennyfeather:

Paul Pennyfeather hails from an ordinary middle-class background. He is a diligent student, studying Divinity at Oxford University. His life takes a drastic turn when he is unfairly dismissed from college due to a prank involving the Bollinger Club. Paul's subsequent journey involves various occupations and encounters, highlighting the absurdity of societal norms and expectations.

Margot Beste-Chetwynde:

Margot Beste-Chetwynde comes from a wealthy and influential background. Her family's history and status give her a certain level of privilege and notoriety. Margot's allure and unpredictable nature make her an object of fascination and desire for Paul Pennyfeather, leading to a chain of events that test his character and values.

Grimes:

Grimes, a fellow student at Oxford University, is infamous for his troublesome behavior and disregard for authority. His background remains somewhat obscure in the novel, but his actions and interactions with Paul Pennyfeather reveal a deep-seated antagonism towards the protagonist.

Prendy:

Prendy, like Paul Pennyfeather, is a student at Oxford University. While less prominently featured in the narrative, Prendy's solid educational background and rapport with Paul establish a sense of trust and camaraderie between the two characters. His insightful advice and rational thinking provide a counterpoint to the chaos surrounding Paul's life.

Character Arcs

Paul Pennyfeather:

Paul's character arc takes him from a sheltered student to someone who must navigate the complexities of society and its moral decline. He goes through moments of confusion, loss, and self-reflection, ultimately gaining a deeper understanding of the world and the people who inhabit it. His transformation is marked by resilience and a gradual shedding of his innocence.

Margot Beste-Chetwynde:

Margot's character arc revolves around her mysterious nature and her impact on Paul Pennyfeather's life. She remains elusive and unpredictable throughout the story, leaving readers questioning her true intentions. Margot's actions and choices directly influence the path Paul takes, shaping his character development.

Grimes:

Grimes serves as a consistent source of conflict, continually challenging Paul's character and actions. While Grimes does not experience a significant character arc himself, his presence drives the narrative forward and exposes the flaws and vulnerabilities of other characters, particularly Paul.

Relationships

Paul Pennyfeather and Margot Beste-Chetwynde:

The relationship between Paul and Margot is central to the novel. Margot's allure and mysterious nature draw Paul in, creating an intense infatuation. Their interactions are marked by a constant push and pull of emotions, uncertainty, and exploration of identity.

Paul Pennyfeather and Grimes:

Grimes and Paul share a tumultuous relationship characterized by conflict and rivalry. Grimes continuously seeks to undermine Paul's position, highlighting the dark side of human nature and the harsh reality of societal hierarchies.

Paul Pennyfeather and Prendy:

Paul and Prendy's relationship provides a sense of friendship and support amidst the chaos of Paul's experiences. Prendy's rationality and loyalty offer Paul a much-needed grounding presence as he navigates through the absurdity of his circumstances.

In conclusion, "Decline and Fall" features a range of distinctive characters that contribute to the satirical nature of the narrative. Paul Pennyfeather serves as a naive yet resilient protagonist, while Margot Beste-Chetwynde adds mystery and depth to the story. Grimes acts as an antagonist, creating conflicts and challenges for Paul. Other characters, such as Prendy, Margot's family members, and various acquaintances, play smaller yet significant roles in shaping Paul's character and experiences. Through their interactions and character arcs, "Decline and Fall" explores themes of societal decline and moral complexity while offering a satirical reflection on human nature.