"The Jewel" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "The Jewel" by Amy Ewing, the characters play various roles that contribute to the development of the story. The protagonist, Violet Lasting, is a young girl who becomes a surrogate, carrying the children of the elite. The Duchess of the Lake, the antagonist, is a powerful and manipulative woman who controls the surrogates. Ash Lockwood is the love interest of Violet, and Raven is her friend and ally. Garnet is the rebel leader who fights against the oppressive system, and Lucien serves as Violet's companion and mentor.

Character Descriptions

Violet Lasting

Violet Lasting is a strong and resilient protagonist who endures the hardships of being a surrogate. She possesses striking violet eyes, which make her unique and valuable. Violet is intelligent, compassionate, and determined to fight for justice. Throughout the story, she displays both vulnerability and strength as she navigates the oppressive world of the Jewel.

Duchess of the Lake

The Duchess of the Lake is the main antagonist in the story. She is a cold and calculating woman who controls and exploits the surrogates for her own gain. The Duchess is power-hungry and does not hesitate to manipulate those around her to maintain control. Her character is characterized by her icy demeanor and determination to maintain her position of power.

Ash Lockwood

Ash Lockwood is the love interest of Violet and a companion in her journey. He is a young man who defies the expectations of the upper class and sympathizes with the plight of the surrogates. Ash is kind-hearted, loyal, and willing to risk his own safety to help Violet. Despite the challenges they face, Ash remains a pillar of support for Violet throughout the story.

Raven

Raven is a fellow surrogate and close friend of Violet. She is described as rebellious and spirited, often challenging the rules imposed upon them. Raven is fiercely protective of Violet and plays a crucial role in their plans to escape the oppressive system of the Jewel. Her character brings a sense of camaraderie and friendship to the story.

Garnet

Garnet is the leader of the rebel group fighting against the oppressive system. He is charismatic and resourceful, dedicated to bringing about change. Garnet recognizes Violet's potential and recruits her to join the rebellion. He becomes an influential figure in Violet's life, teaching her about the true nature of the Jewel and inspiring her to fight for freedom.

Lucien

Lucien is a companion and mentor to Violet. He serves as her guide, helping her navigate the complex world of the Jewel. Lucien is knowledgeable about the history and inner workings of the society, providing valuable insights to Violet. Despite his initial aloofness, Lucien develops a deep connection with Violet and becomes an integral part of her journey.

Character Traits

Violet Lasting

• Resilient
• Intelligent
• Compassionate
• Determined
• Vulnerable

Duchess of the Lake

• Cold
• Calculating
• Power-hungry
• Manipulative

Ash Lockwood

• Kind-hearted
• Loyal
• Empathetic
• Brave

Raven

• Rebellious
• Spirited
• Protective
• Independent

Garnet

• Charismatic
• Resourceful
• Dedicated
• Inspirational

Lucien

• Knowledgeable
• Aloof (at first)
• Supportive
• Insightful

Character Background

Violet Lasting

Violet comes from a poor background and is chosen to be a surrogate due to her unique eye color. She is torn away from her family and forced into a life of servitude. Her background gives her a deep understanding of the struggles faced by the lower classes, fueling her determination to bring about change.

Duchess of the Lake

The Duchess of the Lake comes from a wealthy and powerful family. She has risen to a position of authority through manipulation and ruthless ambition. Her background has shaped her into a formidable adversary who will stop at nothing to maintain control.

Ash Lockwood

Ash comes from a privileged background but rebels against the expectations placed upon him by his family and society. His background allows him to understand the flaws in the system and empathize with the surrogates.

Raven

Raven, like Violet, comes from a poor background and is chosen to be a surrogate. Her experiences have made her rebellious and determined to challenge the injustices of the Jewel. Her background forms a strong bond between her and Violet.

Garnet

Garnet's background is shrouded in mystery, but his experiences within the oppressive system have fueled his desire for change. He has witnessed the suffering of the surrogates and is driven to lead the rebellion against the ruling elite.

Lucien

Lucien comes from a privileged background and has intimate knowledge of the workings of the Jewel. His background allows him to guide and mentor Violet, providing her with valuable insights and support.

Character Arcs

Violet Lasting

Violet's character arc is centered around her transformation from a submissive surrogate to a determined rebel. Throughout the story, she grows stronger and more resilient, challenging the oppressive system and fighting for her own freedom and the freedom of others.

Duchess of the Lake

The Duchess of the Lake's character arc revolves around her desperate attempts to maintain control and power. As Violet becomes a threat to her authority, the Duchess becomes increasingly ruthless, leading to a climactic confrontation between the two.

Ash Lockwood

Ash's character arc involves his journey from a privileged young man to a rebel fighting against the injustices of the Jewel. He initially sympathizes with the surrogates but becomes more actively involved in the rebellion as his relationship with Violet deepens.

Raven

Raven's character arc follows her growth from a rebellious surrogate to a steadfast ally and friend. She becomes an integral part of Violet's support system and plays a crucial role in their plans to escape and fight against the system.

Garnet

Garnet's character arc centers around his role as the leader of the rebellion. He guides Violet and helps her develop her own strength and determination. Throughout the story, Garnet's leadership skills are tested, and he must make difficult decisions to further the cause of the rebellion.

Lucien

Lucien's character arc revolves around his transformation from an aloof mentor to a trusted companion. As he develops a deeper connection with Violet, Lucien becomes more emotionally invested in her journey, offering support and guidance when she needs it most.

Relationships

Violet and Ash

Violet and Ash's relationship is built on trust, understanding, and shared passion for justice. They provide each other with much-needed support and find solace in one another amidst the chaos of the Jewel. Their love strengthens their resolve to fight against the oppressive system.

Violet and Raven

Violet and Raven's friendship is characterized by loyalty and a shared desire for freedom. They rely on each other for emotional support and encouragement, forming a bond that helps them face the challenges of their circumstances.

Violet and Garnet

Violet's relationship with Garnet is one of mentorship and mutual respect. Garnet recognizes Violet's potential and guides her through the rebellion, teaching her valuable lessons about the Jewel and inspiring her to fight for change.

Violet and Lucien

Violet and Lucien's relationship evolves from a distant mentorship to a deep connection. Lucien provides Violet with knowledge and guidance, becoming a trusted confidant and friend. Their relationship grows stronger as they face the trials of the Jewel together.

In "The Jewel" by Amy Ewing, the diverse cast of characters each play a significant role in the development of the story. Through their individual traits, backgrounds, and relationships, they contribute to the themes of oppression, rebellion, and the pursuit of freedom. The character arcs of Violet, Ash, Raven, Garnet, Lucien, and the Duchess of the Lake provide a rich and engaging narrative that explores the complexities of power, love, and the resilience of the human spirit.