The unnamed second Mrs. de Winter is a shy and insecure young woman who marries Maxim de Winter. She navigates the shadow of Maxim's first wife, Rebecca, and uncovers the dark secrets surrounding her death.
Maxim de Winter is the wealthy, enigmatic widower of Rebecca and owner of Manderley. His role in the story is central, as his secrets about Rebecca's true nature and death drive the plot and deeply affect the protagonist's journey.
Mrs. Danvers is the sinister and manipulative housekeeper of Manderley, fiercely devoted to the memory of Rebecca. She creates an atmosphere of fear and tension for the new Mrs. de Winter, attempting to undermine her at every turn.
B.A. in English Literature, and M.A. in English Language and Literature.
In Daphne du Maurier’s classic novel “Rebecca,” a tale of mystery and psychological intrigue unfolds within the grand estate of Manderley. The story is narrated by a young and unnamed protagonist who becomes the second wife of the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter. As she navigates the complexities of her new life, she encounters a cast of vivid characters who shape the narrative’s tension and drama. From the enigmatic housekeeper Mrs. Danvers to the loyal estate manager Frank Crawley, each character in “Rebecca” adds layers of mystery, loyalty, and deception to the haunting atmosphere of Manderley.
The Second Mrs. de Winter
Role: Protagonist
Key Info: Struggles with insecurity and self-doubt, gradually uncovers Rebecca’s secrets and finds her own identity.
Background: The unnamed second Mrs. de Winter is the narrator and new wife of Maxim de Winter. She starts the story as a shy, insecure young woman working as a companion to the wealthy Mrs. Van Hopper.
Personality: She is insecure, curious, empathetic, and resilient. Her insecurity drives much of the tension as she grapples with the overwhelming presence of Rebecca, while her curiosity propels her to uncover the truth.
Development: Throughout the story, the narrator evolves from a timid, self-doubting individual into a more confident and assertive person who finds her place in Manderley and in her marriage.
Significance: She is central to the narrative, as her journey of self-discovery and her struggle against Rebecca’s shadow drive the plot forward. Her character explores themes of identity, self-worth, and the impact of the past on the present.
The protagonist of “Rebecca” is a deeply complex and relatable character whose journey is the heart of the novel. Initially, she is portrayed as the quintessential “poor relation,” living a modest life and working as a companion to the overbearing Mrs. Van Hopper. Her chance encounter with the brooding and wealthy Maxim de Winter leads to a whirlwind romance and marriage, catapulting her into a world of opulence and mystery at Manderley.
Her personality traits play a crucial role in the story’s development. Her insecurity makes her vulnerable to the manipulations of Mrs. Danvers and the imposing legacy of Rebecca, whose beauty, charm, and apparent perfection are constantly highlighted by those around her. This comparison creates a sense of inadequacy and fear in the new Mrs. de Winter, driving much of her internal conflict.
The shy and inhibited nature of the heroine undergoes a radical transformation toward the end of the novel – when she hears the truth behind Rebecca’s death. She becomes more self-assured and confident, especially regarding her place in Maxim’s life. Unfortunately, knowing this little secret also means that her innocence and naivety are forever lost. She begins to harbor dangerous and “dark” thoughts – something that her husband had been trying to protect her from during the entirety of their marriage.
Maximilian de Winter
Background: Maxim de Winter is the owner of the grand estate of Manderley, where the story unfolds. He initially appears as a brooding and secretive figure haunted by his past with Rebecca.
Personality: Maxim is reserved, troubled, secretive, authoritative, and remorseful. His complex personality creates an aura of mystery and tension, especially in relation to his first wife, Rebecca.
Development: Throughout the story, Maxim undergoes significant emotional turmoil and growth as he confronts his feelings about Rebecca and his role in her death. His confession to the protagonist about Rebecca’s true nature marks a turning point in his character arc.
Significance: Maxim is pivotal to the narrative as the central figure whose past with Rebecca drives much of the plot’s conflict and suspense. His character explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the burden of secrets, highlighting how the past can shape and haunt individuals.
Maxim de Winter serves as an enigmatic and complex character in “Rebecca,” embodying the novel’s themes of identity, guilt, and the power dynamics within relationships. Initially presented as a figure of wealth and authority, Maxim’s secretive nature and haunted demeanor hint at deeper, unresolved conflicts beneath his polished exterior.
His reserved and troubled personality contributes to the story’s atmosphere of mystery and suspense. As the protagonist delves deeper into Manderley’s secrets and Rebecca’s legacy, Maxim’s guarded demeanor and occasional flashes of remorse reveal layers of complexity. His authoritative presence over Manderley and its inhabitants contrasts sharply with his inner turmoil and guilt over Rebecca’s death.
Maxim’s development is marked by his gradual emotional unraveling and eventual confession to the protagonist about Rebecca’s true nature. This pivotal revelation not only shifts the narrative’s trajectory but also illuminates Maxim’s internal struggle with guilt and the complexities of his relationship with Rebecca. Several scholars have noted the similarities between Maxim and Shakespeare’s Othello (who killed his wife for believing that she was unfaithful to him) and Christopher Marlowe’s Dr. Faustus (who sells his soul to the devil – the devil here being Rebecca).
Mrs. Danvers
Role: Antagonist
Key Info: As the sinister housekeeper of Manderley who is devoted to Rebecca’s memory, Mrs. Danvers creates fear and tension for the new Mrs. de Winter, attempts to undermine her, and remains obsessed with Rebecca.
Background: Mrs. Danvers is the formidable and manipulative housekeeper of Manderley, deeply devoted to Rebecca, Maxim de Winter’s first wife. Her initial demeanor as an efficient caretaker conceals her intense obsession with Rebecca’s legacy.
Personality: Mrs. Danvers is manipulative, loyal to Rebecca to the point of obsession, intimidating, obsessive, and vindictive. Her actions intensify the protagonist’s insecurities and fears, adding to the story’s tension and suspense.
Development: Mrs. Danvers remains consistent in her dedication to Rebecca throughout the story, becoming increasingly menacing as she tries to drive a wedge between Maxim and the new Mrs. de Winter.
Significance: Mrs. Danvers serves as a primary antagonist, embodying the destructive power of the past and the influence of memory. Her character underscores themes of jealousy, control, and the haunting legacy of Rebecca, highlighting how individuals can be consumed by their devotion to another.
Throughout the narrative, Mrs. Danvers remains steadfast in her loyalty to Rebecca, never wavering in her determination to preserve Rebecca’s memory and to ensure that Manderley remains a shrine to her former mistress. Her character development lies in the escalation of her antagonistic actions, culminating in her desperate attempt to manipulate the protagonist into despair during the costume ball incident.
Mrs. Danvers is described as a tall and gaunt woman who dresses in deep black clothes. Her physical appearance is almost that of a dead woman – with a skull-like face, high cheekbones, hollow eyes, and a pale complexion. It almost seems as if she lost her own life when Rebecca lost hers. Her character serves as a foil to the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment, highlighting the contrast between succumbing to external influence and finding one’s own identity.
Rebecca
Role: The deceased first wife of Maxim de Winter.
Key Info: Rebecca is portrayed as charismatic, beautiful, and accomplished, revered by many for her charm and social grace. However, beneath this facade lies a complex and darker side, marked by manipulation, deceit, and a troubling legacy that continues to affect those left behind after her death.
Background: Rebecca is the deceased first wife of Maxim de Winter, whose presence looms large over Manderley and its inhabitants. Her initial role in the story is established through memories, descriptions, and her pervasive influence on the setting and characters.
Personality: Rebecca is portrayed as charismatic, enigmatic, and complex. She is described as beautiful, and accomplished, with a magnetic personality that captivates those around her. However, beneath her exterior lies a darker side characterized by manipulation, deceit, and secrets.
Development: Although Rebecca is deceased at the start of the novel, her character undergoes significant development through the revelations and discoveries made about her past. As the story unfolds, her true nature is gradually revealed, challenging initial perceptions and deepening the mystery surrounding her life and death.
Significance: Rebecca’s role in the narrative is pivotal as she serves as a catalyst for conflict, intrigue, and introspection among the other characters, particularly Maxim and the second Mrs. de Winter. Her legacy and the secrets she left behind drive the plot forward and shape the psychological dynamics of the story.
Rebecca in Daphne du Maurier’s novel is not merely a character but a haunting presence that drives the narrative’s psychological depth and thematic richness. Initially portrayed through the memories and descriptions of others, Rebecca emerges as a complex figure whose charm and beauty conceal a darker, more manipulative side. Her character development unfolds through the revelations of her past actions and the impact they have on those around her, particularly Maxim de Winter and the second Mrs. de Winter.
Thematically, Rebecca symbolizes the power of memory, the consequences of obsession, and the conflict between appearance and reality. Her enduring influence over Manderley and its inhabitants underscores themes of identity and the lingering effects of unresolved secrets. As the protagonist navigates Rebecca’s shadow, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the exploration of how individuals construct their identities in response to external influences. Rebecca’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of the past to shape and haunt the present.
Rebecca’s character perfectly embodies the theme of appearance versus reality. Through her dual portrayal as both an idealized figure and a complex individual with flaws, du Maurier explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition and desire. Rebecca’s influence over Manderley and its inhabitants illustrates how memory and perception can shape reality, highlighting the novel’s deeper exploration of power dynamics, guilt, and the haunting legacy of unresolved secrets.
Frank Crawley
Role: The estate manager of Manderley
Key Info: Frank Crawley is characterized as loyal, dependable, and supportive. He plays a crucial role in assisting the new Mrs. de Winter as she navigates her new life at Manderley, offering guidance and insight into the estate’s affairs.
Background: Frank Crawley is the estate manager of Manderley, responsible for overseeing its daily operations and affairs. He is a trusted ally of Maxim de Winter and plays a key role in managing the estate’s staff and resources.
Personality: Frank is portrayed as loyal, dependable, pragmatic, and discreet. His calm and rational demeanor contrasts sharply with the emotional turmoil and manipulation present at Manderley, providing stability and guidance to the new Mrs. de Winter.
Development: Throughout the story, Frank remains consistent in his role as a supportive figure to Maxim and the protagonist. While he does not undergo significant personal arcs or changes, his unwavering loyalty and practicality serve as a grounding force amidst the upheavals caused by Rebecca’s lingering influence.
Significance: Frank Crawley’s character is significant as a stabilizing influence in the narrative, counterbalancing the more volatile and sinister characters like Mrs. Danvers. His role underscores themes of trust, reliability, and the complexities of maintaining order and tradition in the face of upheaval. Frank symbolizes integrity and the practical realities of managing a grand estate, highlighting the contrast between appearances and the hidden truths of Manderley.
Frank Crawley is the house overseer at Manderley. He is excessively kind to Mrs. de Winter and offers support and encouragement as she struggles to adjust to her new life. He had apparently been pursued by Rebecca for a sexual affair – something which he had put a stop to by calling Maxim. However, this incident is painted in an entirely different light by Rebecca’s cousin, Jack Favell, who insists that it was Crawley who pursued Rebecca. Much like every other character in the novel, the readers are unable to come to a concrete conclusion regarding Frank Crawley as well.
It is, however, revealed that Crawley had been in on Maxim’s secret all along. Crawley seems to be sympathetic towards Maxim and tries to protect him in the end by bribing Jack Favell.
Frank Crawley therefore embodies stability and trust amidst the tumultuous dynamics of Manderley. His unwavering loyalty to Maxim and practical approach to estate management provide a stark contrast to the emotional and manipulative forces at play, particularly Mrs. Danvers’ obsessive devotion to Rebecca. While Crawley himself undergoes minimal personal development, his role as a supportive and reliable ally underscores themes of loyalty, integrity, and the struggle to maintain order in the face of hidden truths. His presence highlights the dichotomy between outward appearances and the deeper complexities that define relationships and the impact of the past on the present.
Mrs. Van Hopper
Role: The narrator’s employer
Key Info: Mrs. Van Hopper is the gossipy American employer of the narrator. She warns the narrator about the dangers of marrying Maxim de Winter.
Background: Mrs. Van Hopper is a wealthy and gossipy American woman who employs the narrator as a companion during her travels in Europe. She meets Maxim de Winter in Monte Carlo, inadvertently sparking a connection between Maxim and the narrator.
Personality: Mrs. Van Hopper is portrayed as opinionated, nosy, and somewhat manipulative. Her wealth gives her a sense of entitlement, and she enjoys meddling in the lives of others, including the narrator’s. She is quick to judge and vocal about her opinions, often without considering the feelings or desires of those around her.
Development: Throughout the story, Mrs. Van Hopper remains consistent in her role as a foil to the narrator’s burgeoning relationship with Maxim. Her influence wanes after the narrator leaves her employment, but her warning about Maxim foreshadows later doubts and uncertainties in the narrator’s mind.
Significance: Mrs. Van Hopper serves as a catalyst for the narrator’s initial introduction to Maxim and Manderley. Her warning about Maxim adds an element of suspense and foreshadows future conflicts in the story.
Mrs. Van Hopper, a wealthy American with a penchant for gossip, is a transient figure in “Rebecca.” Her role as the narrator’s employer introduces her to Maxim de Winter, catalyzing the central romance of the novel. She embodies intrusive curiosity and blunt opinions, challenging the narrator’s choices and planting seeds of doubt about Maxim. Despite her brief appearance, Mrs. Van Hopper’s warning about Maxim’s character foreshadows future tensions.
Beatrice Lacey
Role: Maxim de Winter’s sister
Key Info: Beatrice Lacey serves as a loyal and compassionate friend to the protagonist, offering support and guidance amidst the mysteries and complexities of Manderley estate.
Background: Beatrice Lacey is the older sister of the protagonist’s husband, Maxim de Winter. Initially, she resides in London and is familiar with the glamorous yet sometimes restrictive world of the aristocracy.
Personality: Beatrice is portrayed as forthright, confident, and fiercely loyal. Her sharp wit and outspoken nature contrast with the more reserved demeanor of the protagonist. Beatrice’s honesty and empathy provide a counterbalance to the secrets and intrigues surrounding Manderley, offering both emotional support and practical advice.
Development: Throughout the story, Beatrice remains a steadfast ally to the protagonist, especially in unraveling the mysteries surrounding Rebecca’s death and the oppressive atmosphere at Manderley. Her character remains consistent in her loyalty and courage, even as tensions escalate.
Significance: Beatrice’s role extends beyond mere support; she represents a voice of reason and integrity amidst deceit and manipulation. Her friendship with the protagonist underscores themes of trust and authenticity, highlighting the contrast between genuine connections and superficial appearances in high society.
Beatrice Lacey, Maxim’s sociable sister in “Rebecca,” becomes a supportive figure to Mrs. de Winter despite initial misunderstandings. Mrs. de Winter, feeling insecure at Manderley, wrongly believes Beatrice constantly compares her to the deceased Rebecca. However, revelations expose that Rebecca had also harmed Beatrice by having an affair with her husband. This revelation casts Beatrice as another victim of Rebecca’s destructive influence. Beatrice’s character highlights themes of trust and appearances versus reality, deepening the novel’s exploration of deceit in aristocratic circles. Her journey underscores the impact of Rebecca’s actions on those around her and challenges perceptions of loyalty and betrayal.
Ben
Role: Gardener at the estate of Manderley
Key Info: Ben is a mentally challenged and emotionally unstable young man who had apparently caught Rebecca in a compromising situation.
Background: Ben is a mentally challenged and emotionally unstable man who works as a gardener at Manderley. He has a history with Rebecca, having witnessed her in a compromising situation, which led her to threaten him.
Personality: Ben is simple, fearful, and deeply traumatized by Rebecca’s threats. His behavior is erratic, and he often displays a childlike innocence that contrasts with the darker themes of the novel.
Development: Ben remains largely static throughout the story, but his interactions with Rebecca and the narrator highlight his underlying fear and resentment towards Rebecca. He does not undergo significant personal development but serves as a key witness to Rebecca’s true nature.
Significance: Ben’s character provides critical insight into Rebecca’s manipulative and cruel personality.
Ben is a mentally challenged and emotionally unstable young man who had apparently caught Rebecca in a compromising situation. He had been threatened by Rebecca regarding this incident and he ended up forming an intense dislike towards her. His fear and hatred of Rebecca add depth to the reader’s understanding of her character and her impact on those around her. Ben’s testimony also plays a crucial role in unraveling the mystery of Rebecca’s death, contributing to the novel’s themes of truth, deception, and the impact of the past on the present.
Jack Favell
Role: Jack Favell is Rebecca’s first cousin, best friend, and ultimately her lover.
Key Info: Jack Favell is portrayed as charming, manipulative, and somewhat reckless. He harbors a deep resentment towards Maxim de Winter and becomes suspicious of the circumstances surrounding Rebecca’s death, leading him to investigate and confront Maxim.
Background: Jack Favell is Rebecca’s cousin, known for his charm and manipulative nature. He becomes involved in the intrigue surrounding Rebecca’s death, suspicious of Maxim de Winter’s role and seeking to uncover the truth about her demise.
Personality: Jack is portrayed as charismatic, cunning, and morally ambiguous. His sharp wit and ability to manipulate situations contribute to the novel’s atmosphere of mystery and suspense, challenging the established perceptions of other characters.
Development: Throughout the story, Jack remains consistent in his pursuit of uncovering the truth about Rebecca’s death. He serves as a catalyst for tension and conflict, particularly in his confrontations with Maxim and his efforts to undermine the new Mrs. de Winter’s confidence.
Significance: Jack Favell plays a crucial role in the narrative by questioning the official account of Rebecca’s death and stirring doubts about Maxim’s innocence. His presence underscores themes of betrayal, secrets, and the consequences of hidden truths, driving the plot forward and forcing characters to confront uncomfortable realities about themselves and their relationships.
Jack Favell is portrayed as a villainous figure, seen through the lens of Mrs. de Winter as a crude alcoholic with a lustful demeanor. His suspicious nature intensifies when Rebecca’s sailboat is discovered with drilled holes, leading him to accuse Maxim de Winter of murder. Favell’s role in demanding justice for Rebecca’s death contrasts sharply with his otherwise morally ambiguous actions, highlighting his complex character. As one of the few characters actively questioning Maxim’s innocence, Favell serves to deepen the novel’s mystery and suspense. His presence underscores themes of betrayal, deception, and the consequences of hidden truths, challenging the established order at Manderley and forcing other characters to confront uncomfortable realities. Favell’s antagonistic role adds layers of intrigue, contributing to the novel’s exploration of guilt, obsession, and the power dynamics within relationships shaped by Rebecca’s lingering influence.
Colonel Julyan
Role: Colonel Julyan serves as the local magistrate and investigator
Key Info: Colonel Julyan is responsible for examining the circumstances surrounding Rebecca de Winter’s death and other related events.
Background: Colonel Julyan is the local magistrate and investigator tasked with examining Rebecca de Winter’s death and related events at Manderley. He represents the authority and legal framework outside of Manderley’s internal dynamics.
Personality: Julyan is depicted as methodical, impartial, and authoritative. His rational approach to investigation contrasts with the emotional turmoil and subjective perceptions of other characters, providing an objective viewpoint crucial for uncovering the truth.
Development: Throughout the story, Colonel Julyan remains consistent in his role as an investigator. He undergoes no significant personal arcs but serves as a catalyst for revealing crucial information and determining the resolution of the mystery surrounding Rebecca’s death.
Significance: Colonel Julyan’s character is significant as a representative of justice and order in the narrative. He symbolizes the external scrutiny and legal consequences faced by the characters at Manderley, highlighting themes of guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of hidden secrets. Julyan’s role underscores the novel’s exploration of the complexities of truth and perception, offering a counterbalance to the subjective narratives and emotional biases of other characters.
Colonel Julyan’s role as the local magistrate and investigator in “Rebecca” not only brings a sense of legal scrutiny and authority to the narrative but also serves as a pivotal force in unraveling the mysteries surrounding Rebecca de Winter’s death. His methodical and impartial demeanor contrasts starkly with the emotional turmoil and subjective perceptions of other characters, offering a clear lens through which to examine the complexities of justice and truth at Manderley.
Julyan’s significance extends beyond his investigative role; he symbolizes the external world’s intrusion into the insulated lives of Manderley’s inhabitants, highlighting themes of accountability and the consequences of hidden secrets. His presence underscores the novel’s exploration of power dynamics and societal expectations, challenging the romanticized ideals and revealing the darker truths beneath the surface. Julyan’s character thus enriches the narrative by providing a critical perspective on the intersection of personal motivations, legal implications, and the enduring impact of Rebecca’s enigmatic legacy.
Lady Crowan
Role: Elderly guest at Manderley
Key Info: Lady Crowan convinces the new Mrs. de Winter to revive the costume ball at Manderley.
Background: Lady Crowan is an elderly woman who lives near Manderley. She is portrayed as somewhat boring and conventional, yet she suggests the idea of hosting a fancy dress ball to Maxim de Winter during a Sunday lunch gathering at Manderley.
Personality: Lady Crowan is described as being a conventional and boring old woman.
Development: Lady Crowan does not undergo significant personal development or change throughout the novel.
Significance: Lady Crowan’s suggestion highlights the social obligations and expectations placed upon the narrator (the second Mrs. de Winter), who must navigate her new role as the mistress of Manderley. The ball becomes a backdrop for exploring themes of societal pressure, identity, and the protagonist’s journey in asserting herself within the rigid social hierarchy of Manderley.
Lady Crowan in “Rebecca” serves as a minor character whose brief appearance and suggestion of a fancy dress ball highlight broader themes of social obligation and conformity within the novel. Her suggestion, though seemingly mundane, catalyzes a series of events that affect the narrative’s progression and character dynamics.
In essence, Lady Crowan symbolizes the external pressures and expectations that shape the protagonist’s experiences at Manderley, underscoring themes of social hierarchy, identity formation, and the constraints of gender roles in the novel. Her role serves as a catalyst for exploring deeper themes of power dynamics and societal norms within the narrative.
Dr. Baker
Role: Rebecca’s doctor
Key Info: Dr. Baker is a physician who treats Rebecca de Winter. He becomes important in the story as his interactions with Rebecca provide clues about her health and personal life.
Background: Dr. Baker is a physician who treated Rebecca de Winter, the deceased first wife of Maxim de Winter. He becomes a key figure in the story during the investigation into Rebecca’s death, providing crucial medical insights and records.
Personality: Dr. Baker is portrayed as professional and meticulous in his medical practice. His willingness to provide accurate medical information contributes to the unfolding of the mystery surrounding Rebecca’s health and demise.
Development: Dr. Baker does not undergo significant personal development or change throughout the novel. He remains consistent in his role as a reliable source of medical information pivotal to the investigation.
Significance: Dr. Baker’s role is significant in uncovering details about Rebecca’s terminal illness and her interactions with medical professionals, which influence the investigation’s outcome. His testimony serves to clarify the circumstances surrounding Rebecca’s death, shedding light on motives and character relationships at Manderley.
Dr. Baker is the doctor that Rebecca visited in London the day she died. During Colonel Julyan’s investigation, he reveals that Rebecca had been suffering from cancer and was infertile. Dr. Baker’s character in “Rebecca” plays a critical role despite his brief appearance, contributing significantly to the novel’s themes of truth, deception, and the exploration of the past’s influence on the present.
In the narrative, Dr. Baker’s testimony helps unravel the mysteries surrounding Rebecca’s life and death. His medical records and observations offer a perspective that contrasts with the subjective interpretations of other characters, highlighting the novel’s theme of perception versus reality.
Gran
Role: Maxim de Winter’s senile old grandmother
Key Info: Gran is a senile old woman who is extremely fond of Rebecca.
Background: Gran is depicted as Maxim de Winter’s elderly grandmother and Beatrice’s mother. She resides in a state of senility, nearly blind and forgetful, yet still holding a strong fondness for Rebecca, Maxim’s deceased first wife.
Personality: Gran’s senility and longing for Rebecca contribute to a melancholic atmosphere at Manderley, emphasizing the lasting impact of Rebecca’s memory on those who knew her. Her moments of clarity and confusion underscore themes of loss, memory, and the haunting presence of Rebecca’s legacy.
Development: Gran’s character does not undergo significant personal development, remaining consistent in her state of confusion and longing throughout her appearances in the story.
Significance: Gran serves as a poignant reminder of Rebecca’s influence and the ongoing emotional and psychological effects on Maxim’s family. Her longing for Rebecca highlights the protagonist’s feelings of inadequacy and the shadow cast by her predecessor, adding to the novel’s exploration of identity, memory, and the past’s enduring power over the present.
Gran is Maxim’s only living relative in the whole world besides his sister. Gran symbolizes the lingering presence of Rebecca in Maxim’s family. Her senility and nostalgic longing for Rebecca underscore the pervasive influence of Maxim’s deceased wife on the household. Gran’s moments of confusion and clarity serve as a mirror to the protagonist’s insecurities and feelings of inferiority, deepening the novel’s exploration of identity and the psychological impact of memory. Through Gran, Daphne du Maurier emphasizes the enduring power of the past and its ability to shape the present narrative and character dynamics at Manderley.
James Tabb
Role: Boatbuilder/secondary character
Key Info: James Tabb provides critical evidence during the investigation surrounding Rebecca’s death.
Background: James Tabb is a boat builder who becomes a key witness in the investigation surrounding Rebecca de Winter’s death. He testifies during the inquest that he built Rebecca’s boat and provides critical evidence regarding its condition and the discovery of deliberate holes that caused its sinking.
Personality: Tabb is portrayed as meticulous and observant, dedicated to his craft as a boat builder. His straightforward nature and attention to detail contribute to the credibility of his testimony, revealing important clues about Rebecca’s mysterious demise.
Development: Tabb’s character does not undergo significant personal development or arcs throughout the story. He remains consistent in his role as a reliable witness and provider of factual evidence.
Significance: James Tabb plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind Rebecca’s death. His testimony shifts the narrative from accidental drowning to deliberate sabotage, implicating foul play and prompting further investigation. Tabb’s role highlights themes of deception, manipulation, and the quest for justice in unraveling the mystery surrounding Rebecca’s life and death at Manderley.
James Tabb was responsible for the maintenance and care of Rebecca’s sailboat. It is his testimony (that someone had sunk Rebecca’s boat underwater) that brings Maxim under suspicion. James Tabb’s role as a meticulous boat builder turned critical witness underscores the novel’s exploration of truth and deception. His factual testimony shifts the investigation from accidental death to deliberate sabotage, deepening the mystery surrounding Rebecca’s demise. Tabb’s unwavering dedication to his craft and keen observations provide crucial evidence that challenges initial perceptions and propels the narrative toward uncovering hidden motives and secrets at Manderley. Through Tabb, Daphne du Maurier emphasizes the themes of justice, manipulation, and the complexities of uncovering truth in a world of obscured realities.
Horridge
Role: Coroner/ Secondary Character
Key Info: Horridge is the coroner who rules Rebecca’s death as suicide.
Background: Horridge is the coroner who presides over the inquest into Rebecca de Winter’s death. He is responsible for gathering evidence and determining the cause of Rebecca’s demise.
Personality: Horridge is portrayed as thorough and meticulous in his investigation. He approaches his role with a sense of seriousness and is determined to uncover the truth behind Rebecca’s death.
Development: Throughout the story, Horridge’s character remains consistent in his role as a legal authority. There are no significant changes or arcs attributed to him.
Significance: Horridge plays a small role in the narrative by officially ruling on Rebecca’s cause of death. His decision impacts the storyline significantly, as it shapes public perception and influences subsequent events involving Maxim de Winter and the estate of Manderley.
Horridge’s role as the coroner symbolizes the quest for truth and justice in “Rebecca.” His meticulous approach to the inquest underscores the novel’s exploration of deception and manipulation surrounding Rebecca’s death. By ruling it as suicide, Horridge’s decision impacts the narrative’s direction, influencing the characters’ fates and societal perceptions. His character highlights themes of authority, truth-seeking, and the consequences of uncovering hidden truths in the complex world of Manderley.
Alice
Role: Rebecca’s maid
Key Info: Alice is assigned as the new Mrs. de Winter’s maid, but is soon replaced by Clarice.
Background: Alice is a housemaid at Manderley, initially assigned to the narrator by Mrs. Danvers. She is tasked with assisting the new Mrs. de Winter in her duties.
Personality: Alice exudes a superior and intimidating manner, which unsettles the inexperienced narrator. Her demeanor contributes to the narrator’s feelings of inadequacy and insecurity within Manderley’s imposing environment.
Development: Alice’s role is relatively static; she does not undergo significant changes or development. Her presence primarily serves to highlight the narrator’s struggles with her new role and the oppressive atmosphere cultivated by Mrs. Danvers.
Significance: Alice’s character accentuates the social hierarchy and power dynamics within Manderley. Her intimidating presence underscores the narrator’s initial vulnerability and discomfort in her new position, emphasizing themes of class and the psychological impact of subservience and authority.
Alice, the housemaid at Manderley, is assigned to the narrator by Mrs. Danvers. Her superior and intimidating manner exacerbates the narrator’s feelings of insecurity and inadequacy in her new role. Alice’s static character and cold demeanor highlight the oppressive atmosphere at Manderley and the rigid social hierarchy within the household. Her presence emphasizes the narrator’s struggle to assert herself, and her eventual replacement with the more amiable Clarice marks a small but significant step in the narrator’s journey toward self-confidence.
Frith
Role: Butler at Manderley.
Key Info: Frith serves as the family butler at the estate of Manderley.
Background: Frith is the loyal butler at Manderley, having served the de Winter family for many years. He embodies the traditional, formal servant and maintains the household with unwavering dedication.
Personality: Frith is composed, dependable, and professional. His courteous and respectful demeanor helps maintain the decorum and elegance of Manderley. He is a stabilizing presence amidst the household’s turbulence.
Development: Frith’s character remains largely static throughout the novel. He consistently upholds his duties and provides a sense of continuity and stability, contrasting with the chaos that unfolds around him.
Significance: Frith represents the old-world order and the continuity of Manderley’s legacy. His steadfastness and loyalty highlight the class structure and social expectations of the time.
Frith is the butler at Manderley. Through Frith, Daphne du Maurier emphasizes the themes of loyalty, duty, and the enduring influence of the past on the present. His interactions with the narrator also reflect her struggle to fit into the established order of the household.
Major Giles Lacy
Background: Giles Lacy is the brother-in-law of Maxim de Winter, married to Beatrice, Maxim’s sister. He is a country squire and a friend to the de Winter family.
Personality: Giles is affable and somewhat boisterous. He is a typical country gentleman, comfortable in rural settings and dedicated to his family and friends. His good-natured and straightforward personality provides a contrast to the truth: that he had an affair with Rebecca.
Development: Giles does not undergo significant development throughout the novel.
Significance: Giles Lacy’s significance lies in his role as a supportive family member. However, his presence also adds to the tension and drama surrounding Manderley. While he appears straightforward and loyal at first, he contributes to the web of deception and lies surrounding Rebecca.
Giles Lacy is Beatrice’s husband who is suspected to have had an affair with Rebecca. He is initially depicted as an affable country squire and is shown to be a steadfast and supportive presence to Maxim. His loyalty to family and friends contrasts with the underlying truth of his past affair with Rebecca, adding complexity to his character. Thus, despite his straightforward demeanor, Giles unwittingly contributes to the narrative’s tension and deceit, highlighting the novel’s exploration of hidden truths and familial dynamics.
Clarice
Role: The second Mrs. de Winter’s personal maid
Key Info:Clarisse provides comfort and security to the narrator in the imposing Manderley.
Background: Clarice is the housemaid at Manderley who is assigned to assist the narrator after she replaces Alice. She becomes the personal maid of the new Mrs. de Winter.
Personality: Clarice is kind, supportive, and respectful. She is depicted as being eager to please and provides the narrator with a sense of comfort and familiarity in the vast and intimidating environment of Manderley.
Development: Clarice does not experience significant character development throughout the novel. Her role remains consistent as a supportive figure to the narrator, helping her navigate her new life at Manderley.
Significance: Clarice’s importance in the narrative lies in her role as a source of comfort for the new Mrs. de Winter.
Clarice is Mrs. de Winter’s personal maid after Alice. She provides a stark contrast to the intimidating and overbearing presence of Mrs. Danvers, representing a simpler, more genuine connection. Clarice’s kindness helps the narrator gain confidence and a sense of belonging in her new home, highlighting themes of loyalty and support in the face of adversity.
Captain Searle
Role: Harbormaster near Manderley
Key Info: Captain Searle finds Rebecca’s sunken boat with her body in it.
Background: Captain Searle is the harbormaster who informs Maxim and the narrator about the discovery of Rebecca’s sunken boat, which leads to the reopening of the inquest into her death.
Personality: Captain Searle is depicted as professional, thorough, and courteous. He approaches his responsibilities with a sense of duty and fairness, ensuring that the investigation is conducted properly.
Development: Captain Searle’s character does not undergo significant changes or development throughout the story. He remains a steadfast figure in the narrative, providing important information and maintaining a neutral stance during the investigation.
Significance: Captain Searle is significant to the narrative as his discovery of Rebecca’s boat propels the plot forward, revealing crucial evidence that contradicts the initial belief of her accidental death.
Captain Searle is the one who happens to find Rebecca’s sailboat near the cove. His role emphasizes themes of truth and justice, as his findings challenge the existing narrative and bring to light hidden aspects of Rebecca’s life and death. Through Captain Searle, du Maurier underscores the importance of diligence and integrity in uncovering the truth.
Robert
Role: Footman at Manderley
Key Info: Robert is accused of breaking a china cupid until the second Mrs. de Winter takes responsibility for it.
Background: Robert is the footman at Manderley, responsible for various household tasks and serving the de Winter family and their guests.
Personality: Robert is depicted as conscientious and diligent, performing his duties with a sense of professionalism. He is somewhat nervous, particularly around Mrs. Danvers, indicating his awareness of the strict hierarchy and the pressure to maintain high standards at Manderley.
Development: Robert does not undergo significant personal development throughout the story. His role remains consistent as a dutiful servant, contributing to the overall functioning of the household.
Significance: Robert’s character highlights the rigid social structure and the underlying tension among the staff at Manderley. His interactions, especially his nervousness around Mrs. Danvers, underscore the oppressive atmosphere that the narrator must navigate.
Robert is a footman at Manderley. Although a minor character, Robert’s presence and demeanor contribute to the depiction of life at Manderley and the challenges faced by the new Mrs. de Winter in asserting her position within the household. He is described as young, shy, and somewhat awkward, often making mistakes that draw Mrs. Danvers’ ire. He is accused by her of breaking a piece of china in Manderley until the new Mrs. de Winter takes responsibility for it. His character underscores the themes of class and power dynamics within the estate, as well as the psychological tension permeating the household.
Jasper
Role: Maxim de Winter’s pet dog
Key Info: Jasper leads the narrator to Rebecca’s cottage on the beach.
Background: Jasper is one of Maxim de Winter’s beloved pet cocker spaniels at Manderley. He accompanies the narrator on walks and plays a significant role in leading her to Rebecca’s eerie cottage on the beach.
Personality: Jasper is portrayed as loyal, affectionate, and intuitive. His attachment to the narrator and his keen sense of direction contribute to pivotal moments in the story, particularly in uncovering secrets related to Rebecca’s past.
Development: Jasper doesn’t undergo significant development or arcs in the traditional sense. However, his role evolves as he becomes a crucial link in the narrator’s exploration of Manderley’s mysteries.
Significance: Jasper symbolizes loyalty, trust, and instinct in the narrative. His ability to guide the narrator to Rebecca’s cottage underscores themes of discovery and revelation, as well as the interconnectedness between humans and animals in unraveling hidden truths at Manderley.
Jasper, one of Maxim de Winter’s cherished cocker spaniels, embodies loyalty and intuition in “Rebecca.” As the narrator’s favorite companion at Manderley, Jasper plays a pivotal role in the story’s unfolding mysteries. His instinctual behavior and deep bond with the narrator lead her to significant discoveries, including Rebecca’s secluded beach cottage. Although Jasper remains steadfast and unchanged throughout the narrative, his presence symbolizes trust and companionship, highlighting the theme of reliance on instinct amidst the complex dynamics and secrets of Manderley.
B.A. in English Literature, and M.A. in English Language and Literature.
Neesha, born to a family of avid readers, has devoted several years to teaching English and writing for various organizations, making an impact on the literary community.
