"Drowned Wednesday" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "Drowned Wednesday" by Garth Nix, the main character is Arthur Penhaligon, who serves as the protagonist. He is accompanied by several other key characters, including Drowned Wednesday, Suzy Turquoise Blue, Leaf, and Dame Primus. Each character plays a significant role in advancing the story and shaping the narrative.

Character Descriptions

Arthur Penhaligon

Arthur Penhaligon is a young boy who becomes the rightful heir to the Architect's Will, granting him the power to control the universe. He is described as brave, resourceful, and determined. Arthur possesses a strong sense of justice and is willing to risk his own safety to protect others.

Drowned Wednesday

Drowned Wednesday serves as the primary antagonist in the story. She is one of the seven Trustees of the Architect and holds the third portion of the Will. Drowned Wednesday is depicted as a giant, bloated figure, covered in seaweed and surrounded by water. She is known for her extravagant parties and her love of music and revelry.

Suzy Turquoise Blue

Suzy Turquoise Blue is a supporting character who aids Arthur on his quest. She is a former Denizen of the House and possesses unique knowledge about the various realms and the Architect's Will. Suzy is portrayed as intelligent, resourceful, and fiercely loyal to Arthur.

Leaf

Leaf is another supporting character who joins Arthur on his journey. He is a loyal friend and a skilled fighter. Leaf is described as quiet and observant, often providing valuable insights and advice to Arthur. He possesses a deep understanding of the House and its workings.

Dame Primus

Dame Primus is a powerful and wise figure who serves as a mentor to Arthur. She is one of the seven Trustees of the Architect and possesses great knowledge about the House and its history. Dame Primus acts as a guide for Arthur, helping him understand his role and the challenges he must face.

Character Traits

Arthur Penhaligon

• Brave
• Resourceful
• Determined
• Just
• Selfless

Drowned Wednesday

• Extravagant
• Hedonistic
• Powerful
• Manipulative
• Greedy

Suzy Turquoise Blue

• Intelligent
• Resourceful
• Loyal
• Knowledgeable
• Adventurous

Leaf

• Loyal
• Observant
• Skilled fighter
• Wise
• Supportive

Dame Primus

• Wise
• Knowledgeable
• Mentor
• Patient
• Strategic

Character Background

Arthur Penhaligon

Arthur Penhaligon is an ordinary boy who is thrust into an extraordinary world when he receives a mysterious key-shaped artifact. He learns that he is the designated Heir of the Architect, the creator of the universe. Arthur's background is not extensively explored, as the focus of the story is on his journey and the challenges he faces in fulfilling his role as the Heir.

Drowned Wednesday

Drowned Wednesday is one of the seven Trustees of the Architect. She was once a human who drowned at sea and was transformed into a powerful Denizen of the House. As the third Trustee, she possesses a portion of the Architect's Will, granting her significant power over the House and its inhabitants.

Suzy Turquoise Blue

Suzy Turquoise Blue is a former Denizen of the House who has escaped its confines. She possesses unique knowledge about the House and its various realms. Her background and how she came to possess this knowledge are not explicitly explored in the book, but she proves to be a valuable ally to Arthur.

Leaf

Leaf is a loyal and skilled fighter who joins Arthur on his quest. His background is not extensively explored, but it is implied that he has spent a considerable amount of time in the House, honing his abilities and understanding of its workings. Leaf's loyalty to Arthur suggests a deeper connection between the two characters.

Dame Primus

Dame Primus is one of the seven Trustees of the Architect and possesses great wisdom and knowledge. Her background is not elaborated upon in the book, but her role as a mentor to Arthur suggests that she has extensive experience in guiding Heirs and aiding them in their quests.

Character Arcs

Arthur Penhaligon

Throughout the story, Arthur undergoes a significant character arc. Initially a reluctant hero, he gradually embraces his role as the Heir of the Architect and becomes more confident in his abilities. Arthur's journey is marked by personal growth, as he learns to trust his instincts and make difficult decisions. By the end of the book, Arthur has transformed from an ordinary boy into a courageous and capable leader.

Drowned Wednesday

Drowned Wednesday's character arc revolves around her descent into greed and corruption. Initially depicted as a vibrant and extravagant character, she becomes increasingly consumed by her desire for power. This ultimately leads to her downfall as Arthur confronts her and takes possession of the third portion of the Architect's Will.

Suzy Turquoise Blue

Suzy Turquoise Blue's character arc is one of redemption and self-discovery. As a former Denizen who escaped the House, she initially harbors resentment towards her former captors. However, through her interactions with Arthur and her involvement in his quest, Suzy learns to forgive and finds purpose in helping him. She develops a sense of belonging and becomes a loyal companion to Arthur.

Leaf

Leaf's character arc revolves around his growth from a reserved and observant individual to a trusted and supportive friend. Initially cautious and hesitant to join Arthur's quest, Leaf gradually becomes more involved and demonstrates his loyalty and bravery. By the end of the book, Leaf has fully embraced his role as a trusted companion and ally to Arthur.

Dame Primus

Dame Primus's character arc is centered around her role as a mentor and guide to Arthur. She initially appears as a wise and knowledgeable figure, providing Arthur with guidance and support. As the story progresses, Dame Primus becomes more invested in Arthur's journey and develops a deeper connection with him. Her character arc highlights the importance of mentorship and the growth that can occur through the guidance of others.

Relationships

Arthur Penhaligon and Drowned Wednesday

Arthur's relationship with Drowned Wednesday is one of conflict and opposition. As the antagonist, Drowned Wednesday seeks to maintain her power and prevent Arthur from obtaining the third portion of the Architect's Will. Their interactions are marked by tension and a power struggle, ultimately culminating in a confrontation where Arthur emerges victorious.

Arthur Penhaligon and Suzy Turquoise Blue

Arthur's relationship with Suzy Turquoise Blue is one of friendship and mutual support. Suzy serves as a trusted companion to Arthur, providing him with valuable knowledge and guidance throughout his journey. Their relationship grows stronger as they face challenges together, and Suzy's loyalty and friendship become invaluable to Arthur's success.

Arthur Penhaligon and Leaf

Arthur's relationship with Leaf is one of trust and camaraderie. Leaf proves to be a loyal friend and ally, supporting Arthur in his quest and offering valuable insights and advice. Their friendship deepens as they face various challenges together, and Leaf's presence becomes an essential source of strength for Arthur.

Arthur Penhaligon and Dame Primus

Arthur's relationship with Dame Primus is one of mentorship and guidance. Dame Primus acts as a wise and supportive figure, providing Arthur with valuable knowledge and helping him navigate the complexities of his role as the Heir of the Architect. Their relationship is marked by trust and mutual respect, and Dame Primus plays a crucial role in Arthur's development and success.