The Tenant of Wildfell Hall

Main Characters and Their Development

• Helen Graham - a young woman who moves to Wildfell Hall under the name Mrs. Graham. She is independent, strong, and determined, capable of radical actions to protect her own well-being and her son's future. Throughout the novel, her past is revealed, including her marriage to Arthur Huntingdon, filled with alcohol and infidelity, and her decision to start anew to shield her son from his father's corrupting influence.
• Arthur Huntingdon - Helen's husband, a charming but depraved man given to drinking and debauchery. His character is gradually exposed as selfish and cruel. His treatment of Helen and betrayal become the catalyst for her decision to leave him.
• Gilbert Markham - a young farmer, the narrator of most of the story and the main male protagonist, who falls in love with Helen. He is honest, steadfast, and devoted, but initially succumbs to societal prejudices. His love for Helen and belief in her virtues help him become more open and accepting.
• Frederick Lawrence - Helen's brother, plays a key role in supporting her decisions and actions. Although he appears in the novel infrequently, his significance to Helen and her son is considerable. He also helps facilitate communication between Gilbert and Helen at various points in the story.
• Little Arthur - Helen and Arthur's son, the motivation for most of Helen's actions. She strives to protect him from his father's negative influence and to instill in him the virtues that Arthur so lacked.