Characters

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Mrs. Bellotti

Mrs. Bellotti, the ever-concerned mother of a former tenant, often finds herself lamenting the state of affairs. Her tales carry the weight of her husband's recent struggle, as he lost a leg to diabetes. When Katz firmly denies her son's return, she retreats upstairs, her heart heavy, to gather his things.

The Girl

A young woman of just nineteen, "the Girl," wears her compassion like a badge. Despite her profession, she cares deeply for the hotel’s inhabitants, going out of her way to assist Morse. It is she who gently breaks the news to Jackie about the worthless land.

Paul Granger III

Fresh from the confines of a work farm, Paul Granger III, a college student with a clouded past, arrives at the hotel. Arrested for drug dealing, he seeks the familiar comfort of his grandfather’s presence.

April Green

April Green, one of the play’s vibrant figures, is both robust and practical. Her laughter comes easily, and she carries her beauty with confidence. Protective by nature, she stands guard over Suzy.

Jackie

Jackie, a resourceful hustler, journeys alongside her brother, Jamie. Desperate for financial support, she pleads with Katz to help secure a loan for their venture into health foods on a barren tract in Utah. However, her desperation leads her to pilfer Morse’s jewelry, and when caught, she is forced to leave. In a final act of betrayal, she tells Jamie she's off to buy gas but never returns.

Jamie

At nineteen, Jamie, Jackie's brother, struggles beneath the weight of his sister's choices. In the play's climactic moments, he finds himself abandoned, left to navigate life’s trials alone.

Mr. Katz

Mr. Katz, the weary and balding manager of the hotel, stands firm against Jackie’s pleas for aid. Faced with the looming demolition of the building, he grants the residents a mere month to find new shelter.

Bill Lewis

Bill Lewis, the hotel’s night clerk, struggles to make himself heard, often overcompensating with a booming voice. Despite this, his heart softens towards "the Girl," showing her an understanding absent in his interactions with other employees.

Millie

Retired waitress Millie lives as much in the realm of fantasy as in reality, her eccentricities a tapestry of ghostly beliefs and grand tales of a mansion upbringing. Her warmth touches those around her, assuring Paul that his grandfather's spirit lingers on.

Mr. Morse

Loud and demanding, elderly Mr. Morse spends his days locked in checker matches, sparring with fellow residents. After a heated game devolves into fisticuffs with Jamie, Morse takes refuge in a closet, emerging only when he believes himself victorious. His vulnerability is exposed when Jackie robs him.

Mrs. Oxenham

Mrs. Oxenham, the steadfast desk clerk and phone operator, stands as the hotel’s gatekeeper. Her no-nonsense demeanor is unwavering as she endeavors to keep the establishment free from the business of the prostitutes.

Suzy

Suzy, a woman of resilience, enters the stage with a customer in tow, embroiled in accusations of abuse and betrayal. Beneath her tough exterior lies a romantic soul, ever in search of a brighter future with a new partner.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Previous

Themes

Next

Analysis

Loading...