The Fool of Quality: Or, The History of Henry, Earl of Moreland: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Fool of Quality: Or, The History of Henry, Earl of Moreland" explores the life and character development of Henry Clinton, the second son of the Earl of Moreland. The narrative begins with Harry being put out to nurse as an infant and follows his journey as he is educated to embody qualities of kindness and generosity, impressing those around him, including the king. After the death of his father and brother, Harry inherits the title of Earl of Moreland and dedicates his resources to aid others. Key figures in the story include Mr. Fenton, Harry's wealthy benefactor and uncle, who plays a significant role in shaping Harry's character. The story also features Ned, a boy who starts as a beggar and later is revealed to have noble origins, and Lady Maitland, Mr. Fenton's cousin with whom he shares a romantic history. Other pivotal characters include Louisa d'Aubigny, Mr. Fenton's wife, who meets an untimely death, and their daughter, Eloisa, who is thought lost but eventually marries an emperor. Lastly, the narrative includes Abenaide, the daughter of Eloisa, who disguises herself before marrying Harry, enriching the story with themes of identity and transformation. This work provides a nuanced exploration of familial ties, social responsibility, and personal growth within a historical context.
The Fool of Quality: Or, The History of Henry, Earl of Moreland: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Henry Brooke
First published: 1765–1770
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Didactic
Time: Eighteenth century
Henry (Harry) Clinton, the second son of the Earl of Moreland, put out to nurse when an infant. Educated to be perfect, he is liberal and friendly, impressing even the king and the court. At his father's death, his older brother being already dead, he becomes the Earl of Moreland and uses his fortune and position to help many people.
Mr. Fenton, a wealthy elderly gentleman who becomes young Harry Clinton's benefactor. He, too, is a Harry Clinton, the uncle of the hero. After he makes himself known to his brother the earl, he is known as Mr. Clinton.
Ned, a beggar lad who becomes Harry's companion as a boy. He turns out to be of good family and is returned to his parents, from whom he had been stolen as a baby.
Lady Maitland (Fanny Goodall), Mr. Fenton's cousin. Years before, they had been in love. She is married to Louisa d'Aubigny's brother and is thus Mr. Fenton's sister-in-law.
The Earl of Moreland, Harry's father. He is remorseful for his treatment of his son and brother and is happy when they are restored to him.
Louisa d'Aubigny, Mr. Fenton's second wife. She dies after a fall.
Eloisa, daughter of Mr. Fenton and Louisa d'Aubigny. Thought lost at sea, she is rescued and becomes the wife of the emperor of Morocco.
Abenaide, daughter of the emperor of Morocco and Eloisa Fenton. She appears in England disguised as a page. Later she appears in her true form and marries Harry, now the Earl of Moreland.