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TOPIC 17 «Dwell on the main characters in the novel “Daddy-Long-Legs”

This story is about how an eighteen-year-old orphan named Judy Abbott was allowed to go to college. This book presents quite versatile and interesting personalities. Let's take a closer look at their description:

Judy Abbott – The protagonist. As I’ve already mentioned, this girl is funny, witty, and vigorous which make her likable. What I love most about Judy is that she’s always enthusiastic about the events in her life since she left the asylum. Although she sometimes expresses her temporary hate towards her benefactor for being unable to see him when she feels very lonely, she still has the greatest respect for the old and bald man (as she imagines him). Her character is believable enough that it will give you the feeling of empathy. I often told my self when I was reading the book, “I would feel the same way if I were Judy.” I even felt sorry for her at times because she has been longing for a family of her own. But that didn’t stop her from learning things and growing up. I also like how she was so open with Daddy-Long-Legs about her feelings on certain things, even her admiration towards her love interest.

Julia Pendleton – Judy’s classmate and roommate. She’s a tall, elegant, snob and rich kind of girl. She represents the high-class society who probably never want to mingle with people other than those who belong in their class. Julia is not really an antagonist type because if it wasn’t for her, Judy would have never met the love of her life. She’s bossy and all, alright. But I think it’s tolerable.

Sallie McBride – Another classmate and roommate of Judy. Sweet and friendly, that’s why they become close and Sally grows fond of Judy because of her personality. She has a very warm and loving family that Judy met during vacation. Sallie is the perfect friend for the main character since Judy has no real family; Sallie gives her the image of what a happy family looks like.

Jimmy McBride – Brother of Sallie who admires Judy. He is highly popular in Princeton University so Judy must be very lucky to have attracted a guy like him.

Master Jervie (Jervis Pendleton) – Uncle of Julia Pendleton. Judy meets him when he decides to visit and call on Julia. However, Julia begged Judy to walk him about the campus instead. He looks like a true Pendleton at fist glance, although he seems simple and unaffected. He was brought up in a well-known New-York family but unlike his family (and Julia) he appeared to be a very companionable person. Judy speaks of him with admiration. They spend time together and become close friends. Master Jervie typifies those wealthy individuals who still have the kind and genuine hearts. He’s also presented as someone who’s perceived differently in their (Pendleton) family because of his eccentric personality.

John Smith (Daddy-Long-Legs) – Judy’s benefactor. In Judy’s mental image, he is an old, tall, (and bald) man. He is an admirable character because even though he never visits nor replies to Judy’s letters, it is still apparent that he cares for her very much. He always makes sure that Judy is doing well with school and has everything she needs. Judy receives generous gifts from him, too. Just like a parent, he also commands (through his secretary) her on certain things and events of her life – which Judy feels obliged most of the time.

Thus, we have considered the main characters of this novel. Despite their differences, they all play important roles and show us their lives