Agnes Grey characters

Appears from the start

The younger daughter of a country clergyman, determined to earn money after a failed investment impoverishes her family. At eighteen she seeks work as a governess, trusting that patience and good principles will enable her to guide children. Her first post quickly tests both that confidence and her limited power as a paid dependent.

Appears from the start

Agnes's mother, who gave up greater wealth to marry the clergyman she loved. Practical, affectionate, and resilient, she economizes after the family's financial loss and supports Agnes's wish to help, although she knows how difficult governess work may be.

Appears from the start

Agnes's father, a clergyman troubled by the small income he can provide his family. Hoping to improve their circumstances, he risks their savings in a merchant's venture and is deeply shaken when the investment is lost.

Appears from the start

Agnes's capable elder sister, who contributes to the household with her painting and shares its effort to recover from financial loss. She and Agnes are close, though Mary is treated as the more experienced of the two.

First appears in chapter 2

Agnes's first employer at Wellwood, who expects a young and inexperienced governess to control her children while denying her meaningful authority over them. She habitually excuses their conduct and places responsibility for failure on Agnes.

First appears in chapter 2

The eldest Bloomfield child and one of Agnes's first pupils. He is indulged, violent toward small animals, and quick to resist lessons or correction, while the adults around him prevent Agnes from imposing effective discipline.

First appears in chapter 7

The mistress of Horton Lodge and Agnes's second employer. Concerned with her daughters' social accomplishments and prospects, she expects Agnes to supervise them without challenging the habits their privileged upbringing has encouraged.

First appears in chapter 7

The elder Murray daughter, nearly ready to enter society when Agnes arrives at Horton Lodge. Beautiful, lively, and conscious of her power over admirers, she treats courtship as a contest and confides many of her plans to her governess.

First appears in chapter 7

Rosalie's younger sister, an energetic girl more interested in horses, dogs, and outdoor pursuits than in the accomplishments Agnes is hired to teach. She is blunt and unruly but less calculated in her behavior than Rosalie.

First appears in chapter 10

The rector attended by the Murray household. Handsome and socially assured, he directs his attention toward wealthy young women and shows little patience with poor parishioners who cannot advance his interests.

First appears in chapter 10

A curate whose quiet kindness to elderly and poor parishioners distinguishes him from the rector. Agnes first observes him through his work rather than through social display and finds in him a seriousness close to her own values.

First appears in chapter 11

An elderly, poor cottager whom Agnes visits. Her failing eyesight and modest needs give Agnes an opportunity for practical kindness, and her gratitude helps sustain Agnes amid the indifference of Horton Lodge.

First appears in chapter 18

A wealthy baronet who courts Rosalie Murray. His title and estate make him an attractive match to her family, while his manner gives Agnes reason to doubt that rank alone will make Rosalie happy.