The Turn of the Screw characters

Appears from the start

The unnamed young woman whose written account forms the central story. In her first position as a governess, she accepts sole responsibility for two orphaned children at the remote country house of Bly, partly because she is impressed by their handsome uncle.

Appears from the start

The housekeeper at Bly, practical, affectionate toward the children, and initially reassuring to the inexperienced governess. She knows the household's recent history but is reluctant to discuss its more disturbing parts.

Appears from the start

The younger of the two children at Bly, a charming and apparently innocent girl who welcomes the governess warmly. She spends much of her time with the governess and Mrs Grose while awaiting her brother's return from school.

First appears in chapter 2

Flora's older brother, a handsome and courteous boy sent home from school after being dismissed for reasons the headmaster does not explain. His gentle manners make the accusation difficult for the governess and Mrs Grose to reconcile with the child they see.

Also known as The Master

Appears from the start

The children's wealthy uncle and legal guardian, a bachelor living in London. He hires the governess on the condition that she manage every problem herself and never trouble him about events at Bly.

First appears in chapter 5

A red-haired man first seen by the governess standing above Bly and staring down at her. His confident presence suggests knowledge of the house, although she knows that he is neither a servant nor a visitor expected by the household.

First appears in chapter 7

A dark-clad woman whom the governess sees across the lake near Flora. Her posture and mourning appearance mark her as a troubling presence, while Flora gives no open sign that she has noticed anyone.

Appears from the start

A guest in the Christmas gathering that frames the tale. He possesses the governess's manuscript, says that he knew her when he was young, and reads her account aloud after arranging for it to be sent from London.