The Crisis: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Crisis: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate relationships and conflicts among key figures set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. Central to the narrative is Stephen Brice, a young Boston lawyer who relocates to St. Louis in 1858, where he becomes entwined in both love and political activism. His romance with Virginia Carvel, a passionate Southern woman, poses challenges due to their opposing loyalties, particularly as her father, Colonel Carvel, serves in the Confederate army. Stephen's moral compass is shaped by his admiration for Abraham Lincoln, who emphasizes the importance of unity and reconciliation amidst the national strife.
The story also features supportive characters such as Judge Whipple, who aids Stephen's political aspirations, and Mrs. Brice, who accompanies her son in this transition. Clarence Colfax, a rival for Virginia's affection, adds to the tension by being a young Southerner whose life Stephen saves twice. The narrative is further enriched by historical figures like Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman, whom Stephen encounters during the war, showcasing the personal and political dynamics of the era. Additionally, the character of Eliphalit Hopper serves as a foil, representing unscrupulous opportunism during a time of crisis. Overall, the character interactions illuminate themes of loyalty, love, and the quest for understanding in a divided nation.
The Crisis: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Winston Churchill
First published: 1901
Genre: Novel
Locale: Missouri and Virginia
Plot: Historical
Time: Civil War period
Stephen Brice, a young Boston lawyer who migrates to St. Louis in 1858. He falls in love with Virginia Carvel and, influenced by Abraham Lincoln, becomes an active Republican. Enlisting in the Union army, he serves in the Civil War. His saving of Clarence Colfax's life and his outstanding qualities enable him to marry Virginia despite the fact that she is an ardent Southerner.
Judge Whipple, Stephen's friend. He helps the young man get started in a political career.
Mrs. Brice, Stephen's widowed mother, who migrates with him to St. Louis.
Virginia Carvel, an ardent Southerner. Though her partisan loyalties conflict with Stephen's, she comes to love him and, eventually, marries him.
Colonel Carvel, Virginia's father. He serves in the Confederate forces.
Abraham Lincoln, the president of the United States, who is an influence in Stephen's life. He makes Stephen and Virginia realize they must forgive and forget their sectional loyalties.
Clarence Colfax, a young Southerner, a rival for Virginia's love. His life is twice saved by the intervention of Stephen.
Ulysses S. Grant, the famous Union general. Stephen meets him at the outbreak of the war, before Grant gets a command. Near the end of the war, Stephen, now a major, is sent to Virginia to report to General Grant on Sherman's campaigns.
William T. Sherman, famous Union general. Stephen meets him early in the Civil War and later serves as a member of the General's staff.
Eliphalit Hopper, an unscrupulous carpetbagger.