Characters
Mr. Spectator
Mr. Spectator is the central figure and narrator of The Spectator daily, published by Addison and Steele from 1711 to 1712, with contributions by Budgell. He is also featured prominently in The Sir Roger de Coverley Papers, which are primarily humorous and moral essays on a wide range of topics, appearing in the daily. His presence is pivotal, providing cohesion to the work as he participates in the "club," which reflects eighteenth-century British life in microcosm.
While distinct from the real authors, Mr. Spectator's views mirror much of their beliefs, allowing the authors a detached stance on the era's political and social issues. His role as narrator involves not only recounting the stories but also prefacing each essay with a Latin epigraph and offering his insights on various subjects. A creed of neutrality guides him, articulated in his own words:
I never espoused any party with violence, and am resolved to observe an exact neutrality between the Whigs and Tories, unless I shall be forced to declare myself by the hostilities of either side. In short, I have acted in all the parts of my life as a looker-on, which is the character I intend to preserve in this paper."(1, No. 1. Thursday, March 1, 1710–11)
Thus, Mr. Spectator establishes the tone of his journal, ensuring that any character flaws described are generic enough to apply broadly. His benevolence and love for humanity underscore every paper.
Sir Roger de Coverley
Sir Roger de Coverley stands as the central figure in the Papers, embodying a nostalgic representation of a bygone era. This fifty-six-year-old bachelor, a good-natured yet naive squire, holds sway over a vast Worcestershire estate. His jovial temperament and humane governance are said to stem from his long, unrequited love for a capricious widow. This love affair left a permanent mark on him, leading to a period of seriousness. Though he eventually overcame it, his sense of style remained frozen in the past, with his attire reflecting the fashion from the time of his rejection.
...he was very serious for a year and a half; and though, his temper being naturally jovial, he at last got over it, he grew careless of himself, and never dressed afterwards. He continues to wear a coat and doublet of the same cut that were in fashion at the time of his repulse, which, in his merry humours, he tells us, has been in and out twelve times since he first wore it. He is now in his fifty-sixth year, cheerful, gay, and hearty; keeps a good house both in town and country; a great lover of mankind; but there is such a mirthful cast in his behaviour, that he is rather beloved than esteemed. (1, No. 2. Friday, March 2)
Sir Roger's affability extends to his role in London, where he presides over "The Club," a group of diverse yet tightly-knit men. His understanding and kindness are matched by his control over his servants, whose lives he oversees with fatherly care. This blend of conservatism and warmth draws sympathy from readers, making his character both vivid and poignant. His eventual demise, due to a cold contracted while defending a widow, concludes his story with a touch of tragic heroism.
Sir Andrew Freeport
Sir Andrew Freeport serves as Sir Roger de Coverley's foil within the club. A man of commerce, he embodies integrity and diligence, with a strong belief in the power of trade to enhance the state's welfare. Unlike many of his peers, he does not idolize wealth for its own sake but plans to retire when he ages....
(This entire section contains 1131 words.)
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His identity as a merchant is so pronounced that British ships often carry goods belonging to him, signifying his vast reach and respectability.
He abounds in several frugal maxims, amongst which the greatest favourite is, ‘A penny saved is a penny got.’ A general trader of good sense is pleasanter company than a general scholar; and Sir Andrew having a natural unaffected eloquence, the perspicuity of his discourse gives the same pleasure that wit would in another man. (1, No. 2. Friday, March 2)
The dynamic between Sir Andrew and Sir Roger fuels numerous debates on political and economic ideologies, highlighting their differences yet solidifying their friendship. Despite Sir Andrew's substantial portrayal, he remains less vividly realized than Sir Roger, whose character has resonated with readers deeply, leading to separate publications of his essays. One of Sir Roger's final gestures was gifting Sir Andrew a collection of parliamentary acts, symbolizing their enduring camaraderie.
Captain Sentry
Captain Sentry is Sir Roger's nephew, whose valor and modesty define his character. Leaving behind a successful naval career, he assumes responsibility for Sir Roger's financial holdings and his seat in the club. His naval experiences endow him with courage and understanding, which, paired with his humble nature, earn him admiration and respect among his peers.
Will Honeycomb
Will Honeycomb, an aging beau and fop, remains youthful in spirit, attributing this to his numerous attempts at marriage. His insights into the female world often contribute significantly to club discussions. Eventually, he fulfills his claim to gallantry by marrying late in life, demonstrating his enduring charm.
William Wimble
William Wimble, a bachelor and neighbor to Sir Roger, lives resignedly under the auspices of an elder brother, acting as the family estate's gamekeeper. Known for his amiability, Will is beloved in the countryside, embodying a life of content simplicity, devoid of estate or business.
Moll White
Moll White, notorious as a reclusive "witch," is blamed for any misfortune occurring near Sir Roger's estate. Her death coincides with a violent storm that damaged Sir Roger's barn, an incident he recounts to Mr. Spectator while denying any superstitious causality.
Kate Willow
Kate Willow is a witty and mischievous woman whose pride in her beauty surpasses her inclination towards love, leaving her unmarried. Her attempts to influence young women to follow her indiscreet path unsettle many in the community.
Laertes and Irus
Laertes and Irus are countrymen whose economic philosophies starkly contrast due to their shared poverty. Laertes, embarrassed by his lack of wealth, spends recklessly, edging closer to destitution, whereas Irus's frugality shields him from poverty.
Tom Touchy
Tom Touchy is a litigious and selfish landowner who, unpopular for his pettiness, frequently sues for poaching. His notorious dispute with amiable Will Wimble over hazel sticks underscores his unpopularity and the community's disdain for his actions.
A Minister
The minister, a club member, enriches the gatherings with his presence, adding a layer of enjoyment and self-reflection for the attendees.
The Templar
The Templar, another club member, transitions his focus from poetry to law, eventually departing from the club as his interests evolve.
Edward Biscuit
Edward Biscuit, Sir Roger's butler, provides Mr. Spectator with the intimate details of Sir Roger's passing and burial through his correspondence, ensuring the legacy of his master's life is documented.
