The Professor characters

Appears from the start

An orphaned young Englishman determined to earn his own place rather than accept a career and marriage arranged by his wealthy relatives. Reserved, observant, and proud of his self-command, he begins as a clerk in his elder brother's business and later seeks independence as a teacher in Brussels.

First appears in chapter 3

William's prosperous elder brother and employer. He receives William without warmth, hires him on poor terms, and treats him as an inferior whose education and judgment are threats rather than assets.

First appears in chapter 5

A blunt, independent-minded manufacturer who does business with Edward. He notices William's ability, condemns Edward's treatment of him, and becomes an abrasive but valuable friend who helps William imagine a life beyond the counting-house.

First appears in chapter 8

The director of a boys' school in Brussels who employs William as an English teacher. Sociable and initially helpful, he also expects loyalty and keeps a close interest in the neighboring girls' school and its headmistress.

First appears in chapter 9

The polished director of a girls' school adjoining Pelet's establishment. Intelligent and accomplished at managing both pupils and staff, she recruits William to teach English and quickly commands his admiring attention.

First appears in chapter 13

A quiet young woman of Swiss and English parentage who earns a little money by teaching lace-mending while studying at Mademoiselle Reuter's school. Her plain dress and hesitant manner conceal disciplined intelligence, literary feeling, and a strong desire to improve her English.

First appears in chapter 14

Zoraïde's mother, who shares the Reuter household and watches the school's interests. She is alert to appearances and to any relationship that might disturb her daughter's plans.

First appears in chapter 20

A respected Brussels businessman connected with William through the schools. Impressed by William's teaching and character, he provides practical support when William needs work independent of Pelet and Reuter.

First appears in chapter 25

William and Frances's young son. Lively, cherished, and sometimes willful, he grows up between his parents' disciplined household and Hunsden's provocative friendship.