"Excellent Women" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "Excellent Women" by Barbara Pym, the protagonist, Mildred Lathbury, is a single woman in her thirties who leads a quiet and uneventful life in post-war England. Mildred's role is primarily that of an observer and commentator on the lives of the people around her. She navigates the world of spinsterhood, friendships, and romantic entanglements with a mix of wit, intelligence, and self-deprecating humor.

Character Descriptions

Mildred Lathbury

Mildred Lathbury is a well-educated, intelligent, and independent woman. She is described as being of average height and appearance, with a tendency to blend into the background. Mildred has a quiet and unassuming demeanor, often fading into the background of social situations. She is known for her modesty and practicality, which influence her clothing choices and lifestyle.

Julian Malory

Julian Malory is a handsome and charming anthropologist who captures Mildred's attention. He is described as being tall with a strong build, and he exudes an air of sophistication and mystery. Julian's character is somewhat enigmatic, as he is often distant and reserved, making it difficult for Mildred to fully understand his intentions.

Everard Bone

Everard Bone is a widower who becomes a potential love interest for Mildred. He is a gentle and kind-hearted man with a warm and inviting personality. Everard is described as being slightly older than Mildred, with graying hair and a pleasant smile. He forms a strong emotional connection with Mildred and provides her with companionship and support.

Winifred Malory

Winifred Malory is Julian's sister and a close friend of Mildred. She is depicted as being elegant and fashionable, with a flair for hosting social events. Winifred is married and leads a more conventional life than Mildred. Despite their differences, she remains a loyal and supportive friend.

Allegra Gray

Allegra Gray is another friend of Mildred's, known for her bohemian lifestyle. She is an artist and often seen as unconventional and free-spirited. Allegra adds a touch of excitement and unpredictability to Mildred's otherwise quiet and predictable life.

Rocky Napier

Rocky Napier is an acquaintance of Mildred's, known for his rakish charm and flirtatious nature. He is described as being handsome and charismatic, with a reputation for pursuing multiple romantic relationships simultaneously. Rocky's presence in Mildred's life adds a touch of intrigue and temptation.

Dora Caldicote

Dora Caldicote is Mildred's neighbor, known for her nosy and gossip-loving nature. She is often found meddling in the affairs of others and prying into their personal lives. Dora's character provides an element of comic relief and serves as a contrast to Mildred's more reserved and discreet nature.

William Caldicote

William Caldicote is Dora's husband and Mildred's other neighbor. He is depicted as being quiet and somewhat passive, often overshadowed by his outspoken wife. William's character serves as a foil to the more assertive personalities in the book.

Alistair Bone

Alistair Bone is Everard's brother and plays a minor role in the story. He is described as being more extroverted and outgoing than Everard, with a penchant for socializing and partying.

Mrs. Morris

Mrs. Morris is a regular churchgoer and a minor character in the book. She is often seen as a source of gossip and speculation among the other characters.

Character Traits

Mildred Lathbury

• Intelligent
• Observant
• Modest
• Practical
• Self-deprecating

Julian Malory

• Charming
• Mysterious
• Reserved

Everard Bone

• Gentle
• Kind-hearted
• Supportive

Winifred Malory

• Elegant
• Fashionable
• Loyal

Allegra Gray

• Bohemian
• Free-spirited

Rocky Napier

• Rakish
• Flirtatious
• Charismatic

Dora Caldicote

• Nosy
• Gossip-loving
• Meddlesome

William Caldicote

• Quiet
• Passive

Alistair Bone

• Extroverted
• Outgoing

Mrs. Morris

• Gossipy
• Churchgoer

Character Background

Mildred Lathbury is a single woman in her thirties who lives in London during the 1950s. She is an educated woman with a degree in medieval history. Mildred's parents have passed away, and she lives independently in a modest apartment. She is actively involved in her local church and volunteers her time to help others. Mildred's background and upbringing have shaped her modest and practical outlook on life.

Character Arcs

Throughout the course of the novel, Mildred experiences several character arcs, primarily in relation to her romantic relationships and self-discovery. Initially, she is drawn to Julian Malory, finding him mysterious and intriguing. However, as the story progresses, Mildred begins to question his intentions and realizes that their relationship is not what she had hoped for. This realization prompts her to reevaluate her desires and priorities.

Mildred's arc also involves her growing friendship with Everard Bone. As their relationship deepens, Mildred discovers new aspects of herself and explores the possibility of a romantic connection. This arc allows Mildred to explore her own desires and challenge societal expectations placed upon single women.

Relationships

Mildred's relationships with the other characters in "Excellent Women" play a significant role in her character development. Her friendship with Winifred Malory provides her with a sense of stability and support. Winifred, being married, offers Mildred a glimpse into a more conventional life and provides a contrast to Mildred's own choices.

Her friendship with Allegra Gray exposes Mildred to a more adventurous and unconventional lifestyle, challenging her own beliefs and values. Allegra's influence pushes Mildred to question societal expectations and consider alternative paths.

Mildred's romantic relationships with Julian Malory and Everard Bone shape her understanding of love and companionship. Julian's mysterious behavior and ultimately disappointing actions force Mildred to confront her own expectations and desires. Everard's presence in her life allows her to explore a deeper emotional connection and consider the possibility of a more fulfilling romantic relationship.

Overall, the relationships in "Excellent Women" serve as catalysts for Mildred's personal growth and self-discovery. Through her interactions with the other characters, Mildred learns more about herself and begins to challenge societal norms and expectations.