The House of Mirth | Teaching Key Figures

Character Descriptions

This section provides a short description of all the major characters in the book. This can be printed out as a study guide for students, used as a "key" for leading a class discussion, or you can jump to the quiz/homework section to find worksheets that incorporate these descriptions into a variety of question formats.

Characters

Lily Bart - The main character of the novel.

Bertha Dorset - Once a friend, this character becomes the main character's worst enemy.

George Dorset - This character's spouse is disrespectful and unfaithful.

Gerty Farish - A social worker who has economic independence and a career.

Carry Fischer - A professional companion to wealthy society women.

Mattie Gormer - A nouveau riche character who the main character meets through a professional companion.

Percy Gryce - Shy and dull, this character is a suitor of the main character.

Norma Hatch - The main...
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