Character guide

Richard Rowan

major

Also known as Dick, Mr. Rowan, Master Richard, Richard Light, Richard The Tiber, Richard Approaching, Richard Welcome, Richard Good, Richard O, Richard Buon giorno

A writer returning to Ireland after years abroad, entangled in a complex emotional and marital struggle.

Bertha Rowan

major

Also known as Bertha Archly, Bertha Smiling, Bertha Gravely, Bertha Hurriedly, Bertha Sinking, Bertha Rises, Bertha Bitterly, Bertha Warmly, Bertha O, Bertha Motionless, Bertha Laughs

Richard's wife, caught between her husband and a former suitor, struggling with loyalty and desire.

Robert Hand

major

Also known as Robert Lightly, Robert Bowing, Robert Grimly, Robert Cautiously, Robert Archly, Robert Brooding, Robert Bewildered, Robert Passion, Robert Friends, Robert Sighs, Robert Tenderly, Robert Those, Robert Little Bertha, Robert Conditions, Robert Slightly wounded, Robert Nodding, Mr. Hand

A journalist and old friend of Richard, who pursues Bertha with complicated motives.

Beatrice Justice

supporting

Also known as Beatrice Mr. Rowan, Beatrice Weakly, Beatrice Shaking hands, Beatrice Smiling, Beatrice Sinks, Miss Justice, Beatty, Beatrice Has Mr. Rowan

A music teacher and cousin of Robert, drawn to Richard and conflicted about her feelings.

Archie Rowan

supporting

Also known as Master Archie, Archie Addio, Archie Eleven, Archie Knives, Archibald Hamilton Rowan, Hamilton Rowan

Richard and Bertha's young son, innocent and observant amid the adult tensions.

Brigid

minor

Also known as Brigid Master Archie, Brigid O, Brigid Going

The Rowan family's maid, who looks after Archie and the household.

Mrs. Rowan

minor

Richard's mother, mentioned but deceased before the story begins.