Catherine (Kay) Leiland Strong

Catherine (Kay) Leiland Strong, originally from Salt Lake City, emerges as a pivotal character in The Group. Known for her audacity and nonconformity, Kay stands out among her Vassar classmates, class of 1933. Her bold, adventurous nature often shocks her peers. The first in the group to marry, she weds Harald Petersen, a stage manager and aspiring playwright, though her motives are suspected to be ambitious, driven by her theatrical interests cultivated at Vassar.

Kay lives in an impoverished yet hopeful state, working at Macy's as Harald struggles unsuccessfully to establish his theatrical career, eventually resorting to minor gambling. His infidelities remain unnoticed by Kay, while their marriage deteriorates amidst frequent quarrels. Despite emotional and physical abuse, Kay refuses to publicly acknowledge Harald's betrayal. She eventually becomes estranged from the group, leading to her hospitalization and subsequent divorce.

Her narrative ends tragically with her death at twenty-nine after falling from a window at the Vassar Club, where she lived post-divorce. Her funeral unfolds at the same Episcopal church where she married, culminating in a confrontation between Harald and Lakey, who finally gives Harald his due. Despite having a robust education and potential, Kay's vulnerability made her susceptible to exploitation, a fate not uncommon among women who are candid yet open to manipulation.

Elinor “Lakey” Eastlake

Elinor “Lakey” Eastlake, hailing from Lake Forest, Chicago, is a striking figure of beauty, intellect, and wealth. Often reserved, Lakey is unapologetically critical, perceptive of societal hypocrisies. Her college years saw a close bond with Kay, tinged with skepticism about Kay's motives. After years abroad, Lakey returns to New York with the German Baronesse d’Estienne, revealing her lesbian relationship, unsettling her Vassar peers. Lakey remains unperturbed, displaying judgment and detachment. At Kay’s funeral, her discerning interaction with Harald highlights her role as a moral and aesthetic arbiter, refusing to engage in his manipulative games.

The novel concludes with Lakey's disdain for Harald’s coarse behavior during the funeral procession, showcasing her analytical nature and strength of character. She symbolizes the critical, discerning observer within the social circle, unafraid to challenge or distance herself from societal norms.

Helena Davison

Helena Davison, Kay’s former roommate from Cleveland, is notable for her intellectual prowess and humor. Her affluent yet simple-living parents encourage her to eschew employment to avoid depriving others of opportunities. After a European tour, she becomes an art student, foregoing her initial teaching plans. As a peripheral figure in the group, she serves as the alumnae correspondent, her writing a parody of such tasks.

Helena’s acute observations often unearth the group's truths. She discovers Harald's affair with Norine Schmittlap Blake but keeps it secret out of pity for Kay. Her direct confrontation with Norine about her flawed marriage reveals Helena’s role as a moral compass, offering candid insights into the lives around her.

Polly Andrews

Polly Andrews, from Stockbridge, Massachusetts, is the embodiment of resilience and empathy. Despite her family’s financial decline from the stock market crash, she maintains a positive outlook while working at Cornell Medical Center and living in a modest New York apartment. Polly's romantic life includes an affair with Gus LeRoy, an editor, which ends when he reconciles with his wife. Her personal challenges, including her father's mental health issues and financial struggles, showcase her steadfast and nurturing nature.

Polly's eventual marriage to Jim Ridgeley, a psychiatrist, brings stability. Her supportive role is crucial during Kay’s hospitalization, highlighting her compassionate disposition. Polly's character offers a portrait of enduring kindness amidst adversity, making her a pillar of strength within the group.

Priss Hartshorn

Priss Hartshorn, known as the group’s...