Mrs Dalloway

Main Characters and Their Development

• Clarissa Dalloway - the main character, a socialite organizing an evening reception. Throughout the day, she reflects on her life, past and present, her relationships with her husband Richard and former lover Peter Walsh. Clarissa experiences internal conflicts and doubts but ultimately accepts her life as it is.
• Peter Walsh - Clarissa's former lover who returns to London after a long stay in India. He still harbors feelings for Clarissa and reflects on his failures in life and love. Peter represents a contrast to Clarissa's stable life.
• Septimus Warren Smith - a World War I veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. His story intertwines with Clarissa's, although they never meet. Septimus struggles with hallucinations and memories of the war, which ultimately lead him to a tragic end.
• Richard Dalloway - Clarissa's husband, a member of parliament. He loves his wife, but their relationship lacks passion and depth. Richard tries to express his feelings to Clarissa but often finds himself unable to do so.
• Sally Seton - a friend from Clarissa's youth with whom she had strong emotional ties. Memories of Sally evoke nostalgia and reflections on missed opportunities for Clarissa.
• Lucrezia Warren Smith - Septimus's wife, who tries to help him cope with his mental illness. Her character highlights the struggles of those who care for loved ones with psychological issues.