Moll Flanders · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe.
Moll Flanders
major
Also known as Mary Flanders, Mrs. Flanders, plain Moll Flanders, one Moll Flanders , who was a famous successful thief , that all of them had heard of , but none of them had ever seen
The narrator and protagonist, a woman who turns to theft and deception to survive.
The Governess
major
Also known as my governess, my old governess, My governess, My old governess
Moll's landlady and confidante who becomes a partner in her criminal schemes.
The Elder Brother
supporting
Also known as the elder brother, The elder brother
The eldest son of Moll's first foster family who seduces and betrays her.
Robin
supporting
Also known as brother Robin, Robert, Mr. Robert
The younger brother who marries Moll after the elder brother's betrayal.
Jemmy
major
Also known as O Jemmy, Jemmy Cole
Moll's true love and fellow criminal, a highwayman she marries in prison.
The Gentleman at Bath
supporting
Also known as this gentleman, my gentleman, the gentleman, the gentleman who , as I said , singled me out for his companion the winter before ; and he came down again with another gentleman in his company and two servants , and lodged in the same house
A wealthy married man who becomes Moll's lover and benefactor in Bath.
The Bank Clerk
supporting
Also known as the man you sent to Bristol, the man, my new spouse
A bank clerk who marries Moll and lives with her until his death.
Mrs. Betty
minor
Also known as Betty, Poor Mrs. Betty, Dear Betty, Lady Betty, the Lady Betty, Dear Lady Betty
A name Moll uses in her early life; also a separate gentlewoman acquaintance.
The Boatswain
minor
Also known as the boatswain
A ship's officer who helps Moll during her voyage to the colonies.
The Captain
minor
Also known as the captain, The captain, a captain, a young captain
Various ship captains Moll encounters, including one who transports her to Virginia.
The Customhouse Officer
minor
Also known as a customhouse officer, the customhouse officers
Officials who arrest Moll during her thieving career.
Mr. Alderman
minor
Also known as Mr. Alderman
A city official involved in Moll's legal troubles.
Mrs. Mayoress
minor
Also known as Mrs. Mayoress
A social acquaintance of Moll's during her prosperous period.
The Officer
minor
Also known as the officer
A prison or court official who interacts with Moll.
Mr. Mayor
minor
Also known as Mr. Mayor
A city official present during Moll's trial or imprisonment.
