Clara Wieland

Clara is the narrator of the story "Wieland." She was orphaned at a young age and brought up by her aunt. When her brother reached manhood and married, she went to live with him on the family estate. Clara is happy in the small society she creates with her family and friends. She is in love with Henry Pleyel, a friend who she grew up with. The story provides details on Clara's background, but mostly follows her over the events of a few months that destroy her idyllic lifestyle. She is an exceptional woman who inspires devotion from her friends and family. Her servant, Judith, practically worships her. Clara is intelligent, caring and courageous. She faces up to horrific events and overcomes them, though driven to the point of despair.

When falsely accused of fornication, she defends herself stoutly yet is empathetic enough to understand why the...