Character guide

Merton Densher

major

Also known as Densher, Mr. Densher, Mr. Merton Densher, poor Densher

A journalist and Kate Croy's secret lover, central to the plot's romantic and moral conflicts.

Kate Croy

major

Also known as Kate, Croy, Kitty, poor worried Kate, Kate Croy

Ambitious young woman entangled in a love triangle and a scheme involving Milly Theale.

Milly Theale

major

Also known as Milly, Mildred, Mildred Theale, Miss Theale, Little Miss Theale, Theale

A wealthy, dying American heiress whose kindness and illness drive the novel's central tragedy.

Susan Stringham

supporting

Also known as Mrs. Stringham, poor Mrs. Stringham, the admirable Mrs. Stringham, Mildred, Shepherd, Susan Shepherd, Susan Stringham, Susie, dear old Susie, poor Susie, Dear Susan, Poor Susie

Milly's devoted companion and confidante, a writer who accompanies her to Europe.

Lord Mark

supporting

Also known as Mark, old Lord Mark, Book V I Lord Mark

An aristocratic suitor to Milly whose actions have devastating consequences.

Maud Lowder

supporting

Also known as Mrs. Lowder, Aunt Maud, Maud, Dear old Aunt Maud, the squared, dear Aunt Maud, Maud Manningham

Kate's wealthy, domineering aunt who schemes to control her niece's marriage.

Sir Luke Strett

supporting

Also known as Sir Luke, Luke, Sir

The eminent physician who diagnoses Milly's fatal illness and advises her.

Marian Condrip

minor

Also known as Poor Marian, Marian, poor Marian, Mrs. Condrip

Kate's widowed sister, struggling with poverty and her children.

Eugenio

minor

Also known as the great Eugenio, The great Eugenio

Milly's Italian courier and servant in Venice.

Lionel Croy

minor

Also known as Mr. Croy, So Mr. Croy

Kate's disreputable, estranged father who seeks money from her.

Mrs. Densher

minor

Also known as Densher

Merton Densher's mother, a minor figure in his background.

Mr. Condrip

minor

Marian's deceased husband, mentioned as a clergyman.

Lady Aldershaw

minor

A society acquaintance encountered at a party.

Brown Pasquale

minor

Also known as Pasquale

A servant in the Venetian household.

Lady Wells

minor

A minor society figure mentioned in conversation.

Dr. Finch

minor

A doctor briefly mentioned in relation to Milly's care.