Jamaica Inn characters

Appears from the start

A capable young woman from Helford who has managed her widowed mother's farm through years of declining health. After her mother's death she honors a promise to live with her aunt Patience at Jamaica Inn, despite repeated warnings about the isolated establishment and its violent landlord.

Appears from the start

Mary's late mother, whose long illness left Mary to run their small farm. Her final wish sends Mary to live with her sister Patience, whom Mary remembers as lively and beautiful from childhood.

First appears in chapter 2

Mary's aunt, once remembered as cheerful and confident but now nervous, worn, and completely dominated by her husband. She welcomes Mary with affection yet is too frightened of Joss to explain what has happened at the inn.

First appears in chapter 2

The enormous, brutal landlord of Jamaica Inn and Patience's husband. He keeps the inn closed to ordinary trade, conducts secret business at night, and rules his household and associates through intimidation and sudden violence.

First appears in chapter 5

The albino vicar of Altarnun, whose white hair and pale eyes give him an unusual appearance. Educated, observant, and outwardly considerate, he listens seriously when Mary explains her fears about Jamaica Inn.

First appears in chapter 7

Joss's younger brother, an independent horse dealer who readily admits that some of his business is theft. He resembles Joss physically but is quicker, more humorous, and less threatening, leaving Mary attracted to him despite her distrust of the Merlyn family.

First appears in chapter 9

The local magistrate and landowner who has long suspected that Jamaica Inn shelters criminal activity. He represents the practical legal authority Mary hopes can act against Joss, although obtaining evidence remains difficult.

First appears in chapter 12

Squire Bassat's kindly wife. She gives the exhausted Mary food, warmth, and calm attention, offering a brief view of ordinary domestic security far removed from Jamaica Inn.

Also known as Harry the Pedlar

First appears in chapter 13

A traveling pedlar associated with Joss's rough company. Familiar with the roads and willing to use force, he is one of the men whose presence confirms that the inn's nighttime trade involves more than smuggled goods.