The Great Valley: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Great Valley: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the lives and challenges faced by a group of settlers in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley during a tumultuous period marked by conflict and displacement. Central to the narrative is John Selkirk, a Scottish Presbyterian minister who seeks a new beginning after being deemed too liberal by his congregation. His journey culminates in a tragic fate following his relocation amid fears of Indian uprisings. His family, particularly his wife Jean and son Andrew, navigate their own trials, showcasing resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity.
Key figures also include Colonel Matthew Burke, a prosperous landowner whose familial connections intertwine with those of the Selkirks, and his son Conan, who experiences the harrowing impact of conflict firsthand with the loss of family members to Indian captors. The saga of Elizabeth Selkirk, who endures kidnapping and captivity, illustrates the personal toll of such violence while highlighting themes of survival and reunion. Additional characters, including Stephen Trabue and various family members, further enrich the story, contributing to a complex web of relationships and experiences that reflect the broader historical context of the era. Overall, the narrative captures the essence of human struggle and resilience amid a backdrop of cultural conflict and upheaval.
The Great Valley: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Mary Johnston
First published: 1926
Genre: Novel
Locale: Virginia and Ohio
Plot: Historical
Time: 1735–1760
John Selkirk, a Scottish Presbyterian minister. Considered too liberal by his Scottish congregation, he emigrates, with his family, to Virginia's Shenando Valley. After establishing a new home and a new church, he decides to move a day's journey west in spite of rumors of sporadic Indian uprisings. Shortly after the move, he is killed by an Indian.
Jean Selkirk, John Selkirk's wife.
Andrew Selkirk, John Selkirk's son and fellow settler in the Shenando Valley.
Colonel Matthew Burke, a wealthy landowner and developer of the Shenando Valley, from whom John and Andrew Selkirk buy their tract.
Conan Burke, Colonel Matthew Burke's son, who has settled on his father's land. His homestead is attacked by a band of Indians and his family taken captive. He is later reunited with his wife and daughter after their escape from captivity.
Elizabeth Selkirk, John Selkirk's daughter and the wife of Conan Burke. Kidnapped by Indians, she is made the squaw of Long Thunder. She finally escapes with her daughter and, after a long trek through the wilderness, is reunited with her husband.
Eileen Burke, the daughter of Elizabeth Selkirk Burke, with whom she escapes from the Indians.
Andrew Burke, Elizabeth Selkirk Burke's infant son, killed by an Indian.
Stephen Trabue, a driver and guide.
Nancy Milliken Selkirk, Andrew Selkirk's wife.
Mother Dick, an old woman captured by Indians along with Elizabeth Selkirk Burke.
Ajax and Barb, servants captured along with Elizabeth Selkirk Burke by Indians.
Robin Selkirk and Tam Selkirk, Elizabeth Selkirk's brothers.
George Washington, a young surveyor.