Chapters
The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins is an epistolary novel rich in character, featuring a diverse cast that brings complexity and intrigue to the story.
Each character plays a crucial role in the unfolding mystery of the stolen diamond and contributes to the novel's exploration of themes such as colonialism and the pursuit of truth. Here, we look into the main characters and their role in the story. Some of them are even involved in telling the story and we get an insight into their points of view.
An epistolary novel is a fictional work that is written as a series of documents, typically letters, but can also include other forms of written communication.
Rachel Verinder
Rachel Verinder is the young heiress to the Verinder estate and the niece of Colonel John Herncastle, the man who bequeathed the Moonstone to her as a birthday gift. She is strong-willed, passionate, and independent, which makes her both compelling and mysterious to the other characters.
Rachel's refusal to cooperate with the investigation and her erratic behaviour after the theft make her a key suspect, adding tension to the plot. She is a fiercely loyal person, particularly to those she loves, which often leads her to act impulsively and emotionally.
Franklin Blake
Franklin Blake is Rachel's cousin and love interest, as well as the primary protagonist for much of the novel. He is intelligent, charming, and resourceful, traits that serve him well when he takes on the task of investigating the theft of the Moonstone.
Despite his positive qualities, Franklin's character is also marked by moments of self-doubt and confusion, especially after he becomes a suspect in the theft himself. His determination to clear his name and win back Rachel's love drives much of the narrative.
Sergeant Cuff
Sergeant Cuff is the professional detective hired to investigate the theft of the Moonstone. He is calm, methodical, and observant, qualities that make him a formidable figure in the investigation.
Though he is known for his expertise and success in solving difficult cases, Cuff is ultimately unable to solve the mystery of the Moonstone's theft due to the complexities and secrets of the people involved. He is a practical man who trusts evidence over emotion, often clashing with those who view the case more personally.
Gabriel Betteredge
Gabriel Betteredge is the elderly steward of the Verinder estate and one of the novel’s narrators. He is deeply loyal to Lady Verinder and Rachel and views himself as their protector, often dispensing advice and comfort.
Betteredge is a warm, witty, and often humorous character who finds solace in reading Robinson Crusoe, which he treats almost like a sacred text. His narration provides much of the story's background and adds a touch of light-heartedness to the otherwise tense and mysterious plot.
Godfrey Ablewhite
Godfrey Ablewhite is a charismatic philanthropist and one of Rachel's suitors, appearing to be a respectable gentleman with a passion for social causes. However, beneath his charming exterior, he is revealed to be deceitful and manipulative, motivated primarily by his financial troubles.
Godfrey’s double life as a thief and his subsequent murder are key plot twists in the novel, showcasing his moral ambiguity and the theme of hidden identities. His actions serve as a counterpoint to Franklin Blake’s more honest and sincere pursuit of the truth.
Rosanna Spearman
Rosanna Spearman is a reformed thief who works as a housemaid in the Verinder household. She is a tragic figure, deeply troubled by her past and secretly in love with Franklin Blake.
Her emotional turmoil and mysterious behaviour make her a prime suspect in the theft of the Moonstone, and her tragic suicide adds a poignant layer to the narrative. Rosanna is a sensitive and introspective character, whose love and despair lead her to take drastic actions.
Ezra Jennings
Ezra Jennings is the assistant to Dr. Candy and a somewhat mysterious figure, marked by his unconventional appearance and tragic backstory. He is intelligent, compassionate, and perceptive, and he plays a key role in solving the mystery of the Moonstone's theft through his knowledge of opium and human psychology.
Jennings is a lonely figure, ostracised by society due to his mixed heritage and his addiction to opium, yet he proves to be a valuable ally to Franklin Blake. His character serves to highlight themes of social prejudice and redemption.
Lady Julia Verinder
Lady Julia Verinder is Rachel's mother and the matriarch of the Verinder family. She is portrayed as kind, dignified, and fair-minded, deeply concerned for her daughter’s well-being and the welfare of her household.
Her death midway through the novel marks a turning point in the narrative, adding to the emotional weight of the story and illustrating the personal costs of the events surrounding the Moonstone. Lady Verinder is a symbol of stability and moral integrity in a world filled with deception.
Colonel John Herncastle
Colonel Herncastle is Rachel’s estranged uncle and the original thief of the Moonstone from an Indian temple. His character is largely revealed through other people's accounts, painting him as a ruthless, vengeful, and morally dubious figure.
The curse he carries with the diamond drives much of the plot, symbolising the novel's critique of colonial exploitation and the consequences of greed. His death and his decision to bequeath the Moonstone to Rachel set the entire story in motion.
The rich ensemble of characters in The Moonstone contributes to its status as a landmark in detective fiction. Each character, whether major or minor, adds something to the tale, bringing depth and complexity to the story.
Through their distinct personalities and actions, Collins creates a narrative that continues to engage and captivate readers to this day.
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