Edward Chamberlayne

Edward Chamberlayne is a middle-aged lawyer grappling with life after his wife leaves him. Initially reliant on her presence in social interactions, he faces the daunting task of engaging with the world alone. During this tumultuous period, he realizes his indifference towards his young mistress and acknowledges his desire for his wife's return. After what he perceives as a nervous breakdown, Edward consults a psychiatrist. Through this process, he confronts his mediocrity and fear of being unable to truly love. With this newfound self-awareness, Edward begins to reconstruct his life into a more fulfilling one.

Lavinia Chamberlayne

Lavinia Chamberlayne, Edward's wife, undergoes her own transformative journey. Under the care of a psychiatrist, she is led to believe she was cured at a sanatorium. Her reunion with Edward, orchestrated by the psychiatrist, initiates a new phase in their relationship. Lavinia comes to terms with her longstanding fear of being unlovable. This realization enables her, like Edward, to adapt and build a content life together.

Julia Shuttlethwaite

Julia Shuttlethwaite, a friend of the Chamberlaynes, appears at first as a meddlesome old woman, seemingly lacking full awareness. However, she is instrumental in catalyzing the events that lead to the Chamberlaynes' emotional awakening. As a catalyst, Julia manages to provoke actions among the characters that ultimately guide them towards personal growth.

Celia Coplestone

Celia Coplestone is a sensitive young poet who initially believes herself in love with Edward Chamberlayne. Her disillusionment with him reveals his true nature to her. Guided by Julia and Alex to the psychiatrist, Celia discovers her life's purpose. Transitioning from her poetic endeavors, she joins a religious order, dedicating herself as a nurse on an Eastern island. Tragically, Celia meets her end at the hands of native inhabitants.

Peter Quilpe

Peter Quilpe is portrayed as a shy young man enamored with Celia, unaware that she does not reciprocate his feelings. He previously engaged in an affair with Lavinia, which contributed to her seeking psychiatric help. Following his heartbreak over Celia, Peter relocates to California, where he finds success in the film industry. By the play's end, he is set on creating a film about British aristocracy, suggesting his inclination towards fabricated realities. Despite his achievements, he grapples with the news of Celia’s death, which starkly contrasts the artificial world he wishes to capture.

Alexander (Alex) MacColgie Gibbs

Alexander (Alex) MacColgie Gibbs is another friend of the Chamberlaynes who initially comes across as meddlesome. However, he turns out to be an astute manipulator, part of a conspiracy with Julia and the psychiatrist to realign the Chamberlaynes’ and Celia’s lives. Alex’s seemingly superficial demeanor belies his role as a pivotal figure who maneuvers events behind the scenes. His character oscillates between the superficiality of a worldly raconteur and the deeper intelligence of a director of fates, as portrayed in his interactions and conversations.

Sir Henry Harcourt-Reilly

Initially introduced as an unidentified guest at the Chamberlayne cocktail party, Sir Henry Harcourt-Reilly is later revealed to be the psychiatrist who profoundly influences the characters' lives. His seemingly casual and philosophical demeanor masks a strategic mind that has already devised solutions for his patients before they even seek his help. Sir Henry’s treatment philosophy involves reconciling individuals with the human condition, or, as in Celia’s case, embarking on a mysterious journey of self-discovery. His reaction to Celia’s death, expressed through a complex poem, suggests foresight and an acceptance of her fate as part of a larger existential tapestry.

Miss Barraway

Miss Barraway serves as Sir Henry Harcourt-Reilly's secretary. She follows his precise instructions for managing the flow of patients, appearing briefly to usher...