Mrs. Quilp
The timid and submissive wife of Daniel Quilp.
Core Belief
"It is better to obey and avoid conflict than to assert oneself, even when faced with injustice."
Worldview
Mrs. Quilp sees the world as a dangerous place, where she must rely on the protection of a stronger figure, even if that figure is cruel and abusive. She has little agency and accepts her fate with resignation.
Personality
Mrs. Quilp is a pretty, mild-mannered woman who is completely dominated by her husband. She is fearful of his temper and readily complies with his demands, even when they conflict with her own moral compass.
In Their Own Words
"‘Yes, Quilp,’ she replead meekly."
"‘I--I--didn’t ask them to tea, Quilp,’ stammered his wife. ‘It’s quite an accident.’"
"‘Dear Quilp,’ faltered his wife. ‘I love the child--if you could do without making me deceive her--’"
Other Characters from The Old Curiosity Shop
Nell Trent
The virtuous and compassionate young protagonist.
Grandfather Trent
Nell's doting but flawed grandfather and guardian.
Daniel Quilp
The grotesque and malevolent antagonist.
Richard Swiveller
A carefree and often inebriated clerk with a good heart.
Christopher 'Kit' Nubbles
A kind-hearted and loyal young man, wrongly accused of theft.
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