Marching On: Analysis of Major Characters
"Marching On: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the dynamics of class and personal growth through its central characters, primarily focusing on James Fraser, a North Carolina farm boy with aspirations to improve his social standing. Initially portrayed as awkward yet sensitive, James undergoes significant transformation due to his experiences as a railroad worker and his time as a prisoner during the Civil War. His resilience and commitment to his principles allow him to perceive himself as equal to those he once viewed as superiors, embodying the concept of a "true aristocrat" defined by virtue and talent.
The narrative also introduces Stewart Prevost, a wealthy planter's daughter who loves James and supports his ambitions, highlighting a more progressive view of social class differences. Her father, Colonel Prevost, initially holds a condescending view of James but ultimately recognizes his worth, reflecting the possibility of bridging social divides. Furthermore, Charles Prevost, Stewart's brother and a Confederate captain, adds complexity to the story's themes of loyalty and revenge following his death. This character analysis delves into the intersecting themes of ambition, love, and societal expectations in the context of a transforming America.
Marching On: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: James Boyd
First published: 1927
Genre: Novel
Locale: North Carolina
Plot: Historical
Time: The Civil War period
James Fraser, a North Carolina farm boy, awkward, uncouth, sensitive, and proud. He is ambitious to rise in life. His experience as a railroad worker in Wilmington and his Civil War service, including a long internment as a prisoner of war, mature him. His dedication to his beliefs and his determination to endure life's hardships enable him to regard himself as humanly equal to those whom he had once looked upon as his superiors. James may be thought of as an illustration of what Thomas Jefferson in a letter to John Adams called a “true aristocrat,” the grounds of whose aristocracy are “virtue and talents.”
Stewart Prevost, a rich planter's daughter loved by James. Appreciative of his desire to better himself, she offers him money to help him do so. Less conscious than James of the difference in social and financial status between them, she loves him and is willing to marry him.
Colonel Prevost, her father. Although he is courteous and friendly to the Fraser family, he gives the impression that he considers them beneath himself and his daughter, and he at first opposes a continuation of the relationship between Stewart and James. Later, convinced of James's true worth, he is happy to have Stewart marry a Fraser.
Charles Prevost, Stewart's brother, a Confederate captain under whom James serves. After Charles is killed, James shoots the killers.