2016 Nov 10
by Vandana Hiranand
Literature never fails to enthrall us, and one of the most fascinating aspects is the iconic characters we fall in love with. All readers have experienced the joy of being captivated by a character and feeling as if you know them personally! This is because literature gives us a way to fall in love with the thoughts, feelings, and memories of a character, rather than simply their outward looks.
On that note, let’s take a look at some of the most iconic literary characters we have had the privilege of reading about.
- Elizabeth Bennet – Pride and Prejudice
Elizabeth Bennet is regarded as one of the most admirable and endearing of Jane Austen’s heroines. A delightfully complex character, she chooses to fight through her circumstances and marry for love, rather than for convenience of economic security.
- Hermione Granger – Harry Potter
A beloved character of the Harry Potter series, Hermione Granger inspired a generation of young girls. Breaking gender stereotypes, she taught girls about being intellectual, a leader, and being committed to your passion. The character of Hermione shaped the lives of many young readers around the world.
- Sherlock Holmes – A Study in Scarlet and others
Arguably one of the most well-known fictional detectives in History, the adventures of Sherlock Holmes are still alive today. The adventures of Sherlock Holmes have left an impact on the landscape of mystery and detective literature for years to come.
- Dr. Watson – A Study in Scarlet and others
Sherlock Holmes’ faithful companion, assistant, friend and flat-mate, Dr Watson is the second of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic characters. The legendary duo of Sherlock and Watson is known worldwide.
- Gatsby – The Great Gatsby
The figure of Gatsby became a cultural touchstone in 20th century America. His tale is that of a fresh start and second chance, which resonated greatly with readers. The character is often used as a symbol for great wealth, and the archetype of a powerful businessman within America. Needless to say, Gatsby will be around for quite a while.
- Jane Eyre – Jane Eyre
From the classic novel by Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre possesses a sense of self-wroth, dignity, commitment to justice and principle, and passionate disposition. Jane voices her brave opinions on religion, social class, and gender, which were rather controversial during this time. In this way, Jane Eyre inspired a number of women around the world.
- Dr. Hannibal Lecter – Red Dragon and others
The iconic forensic psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter is a character in a series of suspense novels by Thomas Harris. This legendary character has been adapted into films and television as well. He is known worldwide as one of the most famous villains and psychologically interesting characters.
- Alice – Alice in Wonderland
The protagonist of the famous children’s books, Alice is a mid-Victorian girl who goes on an underground adventure after accidentally falling down a rabbit hole into Wonderland. One of the most popular fictional characters, she has been portrayed in movies as well. Her personality and curiosity depicted within the stories are cherished by many.
- Prince Hamlet – Hamlet
One of Shakespeare’s most celebrated characters, Prince Hamlet is known for his battle with revenge, murder, and his own sanity. The passion, indecision, and complexity of this character will keep him alive for generations to come. Also, the phrase “To be, or not to be” is such an unforgettable one!
- Romeo and Juliet – Romeo and Juliet
Verona’s star-crossed lovers have become the most renowned romantic duo of all time. In fact, the name Romeo has become synonymous with lover in popular culture. The tale of forbidden love, murder, and tragedy is common knowledge worldwide. Regardless of the fact that they both killed themselves in the end, the public has embraced and accepted Romeo and Juliet as the most beloved couple of all time.
- Jo March – Little Women
Jo was a reckless, daring woman who challenged the gender stereotypes in her day. She behaved in a ‘boyish’ manner by whistling, using slang, and ruffling her clothes, all of which were attributed to masculinity during this time.
- Princess Anna Karenina – Anna Karenina
Anna is depicted as a beautiful aristocratic woman whose pursuit of love and emotional honesty makes her a social outcast. An intelligent, literate and courageous woman, she captures everyone’s attention and abhors fakery. Anna Karenina is an iconic character created by Leo Tolstoy.
- Nancy Drew – Nancy Drew Mystery Stories
The character of the girl detective Nancy Drew developed over many years and has been ghostwritten by many authors under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. As a young, assertive, and strong female character, Nancy Drew inspired the childhoods of many young girls worldwide.
- Mary Poppins – Mary Poppins
The magical English nanny Mary Poppins is the protagonist of eight children’s novels. With a magical touch, she teaches the Banks children valuable lessons. Poppins is undoubtedly an iconic British character and her spoonful of sugar will not be easily forgotten! And supercalifragilisticexpialidocious is the best word ever, no matter what you say.
- Hercule Poirot – The Mysterious Affair at Styles and others
Created by and featured in many Agatha Christie novels, he is one of the most famous fictional characters of all time. The inimitable Belgian private detective is synonymous with perfectionism and little grey cells. A great detective with no care for modesty, he is a rather unique character, whose stories will be read for many years to come.
- Atticus Finch – To Kill a Mockingbird
Finch has been labeled as the seventh best fictional character of 20th century literature. Atticus has become a legendary character in legal circles and is sometimes treated as if he were an actual person. This character had an enormous impact on the legal profession and, consequently, literature.
