The Portrait Of A Lady (Classic Serial) characters

First appears in chapter 2

A young American woman brought to Europe by her aunt. Intelligent, imaginative, and fiercely protective of her freedom, Isabel wants to see the world and develop on her own terms before allowing marriage or convention to define her.

Appears from the start

Isabel's cousin, the only son of the American banker who owns Gardencourt. Chronic illness limits his plans, but leaves him observant, ironic, and unusually attentive to the freedom and happiness of those he loves.

Appears from the start

Ralph's elderly father, an American expatriate who has built a successful banking career in England and made Gardencourt his home. Frail but shrewd and warmhearted, he takes an immediate interest in Isabel.

First appears in chapter 2

Isabel's decisive, independent aunt, who divides her time among homes in Europe and America. She discovers Isabel in Albany and brings her abroad, offering opportunity while making clear that each woman will order her own life.

Appears from the start

A wealthy English nobleman and neighbor of the Touchetts. Courteous, politically liberal, and accustomed to social privilege without being ruled by it, he is quickly attracted to Isabel's independence.

First appears in chapter 4

An American businessman whose intense devotion to Isabel has survived her refusal of his marriage proposal. Energetic and persistent, he follows her to Europe hoping that time and distance have changed her answer.

First appears in chapter 6

Isabel's American friend, an outspoken journalist determined to observe European life for herself. Direct, skeptical of aristocratic glamour, and loyal to Isabel, she distrusts any influence that might narrow her friend's choices.

First appears in chapter 18

A cultivated American woman living in Europe who meets Isabel at Gardencourt. Accomplished, socially perceptive, and practiced at making herself welcome, she becomes Isabel's admired older friend and guide.

First appears in chapter 22

An American widower living modestly near Florence, devoted to art, taste, and the appearance of perfect discrimination. He has little fortune but presents his secluded life and refined opinions as evidence that he rejects ordinary ambition.

First appears in chapter 23

Gilbert Osmond's young daughter, educated in a convent and trained to be quiet, graceful, and obedient. Her innocence and eagerness to please make a strong impression on Isabel.

Also known as Countess Gemini

First appears in chapter 29

Osmond's sister, an American married unhappily into the Italian nobility. Restless, mocking, and indiscreet, she knows the history behind her brother's carefully composed household.

First appears in chapter 29

A young American art collector living in Europe who knew Pansy when they were children. On meeting her again in Rome, he falls in love and hopes that his respectable character and growing collection will win Osmond's consent.

First appears in chapter 15

An English friend of Ralph who accompanies Henrietta on her travels. Easygoing, practical, and sociable, he helps her navigate Europe without trying to silence her independent judgments.