"The Well of Loneliness" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

"The Well of Loneliness" is a novel written by Radclyffe Hall, first published in 1928. The story revolves around the life of Stephen Gordon, the protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery and identity in a society that rejects her lesbianism. Other pivotal characters include Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott, Stephen's love interest, and Mary Llewellyn, her romantic partner.

Character Descriptions

1. Stephen Gordon: Stephen is a courageous and introspective young woman who struggles with her sexual orientation. She is described as tall, strong, and androgynous in appearance. Her features, including her deep-set eyes and masculine jawline, defy traditional femininity.
2. Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott: Lady Anna Elliott, also known as "Maze," is a beautiful and wealthy woman who captures Stephen's heart. She is described as elegant, with a delicate demeanor and a magnetic personality that draws others toward her.
3. Mary Llewellyn: Mary Llewellyn is a young working-class woman who becomes Stephen's devoted romantic partner. She is characterized as gentle, kind-hearted, and physically attractive. Her love for Stephen transcends societal norms and expectations.
4. Sir Philip Margery: Sir Philip Margery is Stephen's father, a wealthy and influential man. He initially fails to understand his daughter's sexual identity, leading to their strained relationship. However, he later evolves and becomes an advocate for her sexuality.
5. Angela Crossby: Angela Crossby is a close friend of Stephen's. She represents the moral and societal constraints that enforce conformity, often criticizing Stephen's choices. Angela struggles to fully comprehend the complexities of Stephen's sexuality, leading to tension in their relationship.
6. Barbara: Barbara is another friend of Stephen's who supports her throughout her journey. She represents the progressive voices within society and serves as a source of solace and understanding for Stephen.
7. Collins: Collins is a friend and confidante of Stephen. He provides a more realistic and empathetic perspective, helping her navigate the challenges she faces due to her sexual orientation.
8. Puddle: Puddle is Stephen's loyal dog, providing companionship and unconditional love in her solitary moments.

Character Traits

1. Stephen Gordon: Determined, introspective, courageous, self-aware, compassionate, lonely.
2. Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott: Charismatic, alluring, adventurous, conflicted, torn between societal expectations and her love for Stephen.
3. Mary Llewellyn: Loving, selfless, understanding, patient, resilient, supportive of Stephen's journey.
4. Sir Philip Margery: Powerful, influential, initially judgmental and dismissive, but later accepts and defends Stephen's sexuality.
5. Angela Crossby: Judgmental, conservative, unable to empathize with Stephen's struggles and love, representing societal prejudice.
6. Barbara: Empathetic, open-minded, supportive, a symbol of progressive values and acceptance.
7. Collins: Empathetic, understanding, supportive, a voice of reason in Stephen's life.
8. Puddle: Loyal, affectionate, the source of comfort in Stephen's loneliness.

Character Background

Stephen Gordon

Stephen Gordon is raised in an aristocratic British family, with all the privileges and expectations that come with it. At a young age, she discovers her attraction to women, which leads to feelings of confusion and isolation. Throughout her upbringing, she grapples with her identity, facing rejection and misunderstanding from society, her family, and even herself.

Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott

Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott is a socialite from a wealthy family. She meets Stephen during their time at a nursing home during the First World War. Maze falls in love with Stephen, but their relationship faces numerous challenges due to societal norms and the fear of judgment.

Mary Llewellyn

Mary Llewellyn comes from a working-class background and works as a typist. She is drawn to Stephen's strength and vulnerability, and they form a deep emotional connection. Despite the societal pressures they face, Mary remains committed to their relationship, providing Stephen with the love and support she needs.

Character Arcs

Stephen Gordon

Stephen's character arc in "The Well of Loneliness" is centered around self-discovery, acceptance, and finding her place in a world that devalues her sexuality. Initially, she struggles with feelings of shame and loneliness, but as the story progresses, she becomes more confident in her identity. Stephen's journey ultimately leads her to embrace her own truth and challenge societal conventions.

Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott

Maze's character arc revolves around her internal conflict between societal expectations and her love for Stephen. She initially struggles to come to terms with her feelings for another woman and grapples with the fear of societal judgment. Maze undergoes a transformative journey as she navigates her way towards acceptance and understanding, ultimately choosing love over societal conformity.

Mary Llewellyn

Mary's character arc centers around her unwavering love and support for Stephen. She starts as a shy and reserved woman, but her relationship with Stephen brings out her inner strength and resilience. Mary remains devoted to Stephen despite the challenges they face, ultimately becoming a source of stability and love in Stephen's life.

Relationships

1. Stephen Gordon and Lady Anna "Maze" Elliott: Their relationship is passionate and intense, defying societal expectations and norms. Their connection represents a profound and transformative love that challenges societal conventions.
2. Stephen Gordon and Mary Llewellyn: Despite initial doubts and reservations, Mary and Stephen's relationship becomes a sanctuary of love and acceptance. Mary's unwavering support provides Stephen with the strength to accept herself and face the world.
3. Stephen Gordon and Sir Philip Margery: Initially strained due to Stephen's sexuality, their relationship evolves as Sir Philip learns to understand and support his daughter. His journey represents a broader societal shift towards acceptance.
4. Stephen Gordon and Angela Crossby: Angela's friendship with Stephen is complicated due to her inability to fully comprehend and accept Stephen's sexuality. Their relationship highlights the societal prejudices and misunderstandings that Stephen encounters.
5. Stephen Gordon and Barbara: Barbara provides unwavering support to Stephen, serving as a source of understanding and comfort throughout her journey. Their friendship showcases the importance of allies in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

"The Well of Loneliness" delves into themes of identity, love, and acceptance in a society that rejects unconventional sexualities. Stephen Gordon's character, along with the other significant characters, undergoes personal transformations, challenging societal norms and finding solace in their connections. Through their journeys, the novel raises important questions about individuality, societal acceptance, and the power of authenticity.