Candida characters

Appears from the start

The wife of James Morell and the quietly commanding center of his household. Warm, perceptive, and practical, she manages the domestic life that supports her husband's public success. Her return home with the young poet Marchbanks brings an unspoken tension into the family.

Appears from the start

A popular Church of England clergyman and Christian Socialist speaker, married to Candida. Energetic, confident, and generous, he moves easily between sermons, political lectures, and charitable work. He assumes that his happy marriage and public usefulness rest on secure foundations.

Appears from the start

A sensitive eighteen-year-old poet from a wealthy family whom Morell once found distressed and alone. Awkward and fearful in ordinary company, he becomes intense and eloquent when speaking about Candida, whom he regards as trapped by the demands of her husband's household.

Appears from the start

Candida's father, a blunt and prosperous businessman whose firm has been criticized for poor labor practices. He dislikes Morell's socialism and moral confidence, but hopes to restore friendly relations when contact with his son-in-law becomes useful to him.

Also known as Prossy

Appears from the start

Morell's highly capable typist and secretary. Her brusque efficiency conceals a deep personal attachment to her employer, which makes her impatient with the stream of admirers who demand his time.

Appears from the start

Morell's earnest young curate. He admires Morell's preaching and tries to copy his manner, while lacking his mentor's confidence and force. His straightforward observations help reveal feelings in the household that others leave unspoken.