write a character sketch of Mr barthwick
Answers
Barthwick:
Barthwick, the father of Jack in “The Silver Box “ is a hypocrite. He belongs to
the Liberal Party and is a member of Parliament. He uses slogans expressing his
sympathy for the poor and the downtrodden but backs out when he has to act. He is very
keen on safeguarding the honour of his family. He is shocked to find that his son Jack has
an illicit relationship with a disreputable woman, and also stolen her purse containing a
little more than seven pounds. When the woman threatens to take action if the money is
not restored to her, Barthwick gives her eight pounds which is much more than what his
son owes her. This gesture is due not to any feeling of generousity but to his wish to
silence the woman and prevent her from spoiling the name of his family. After she
leaves, he condemns his son for his irresponsible behaviour. He calls him a nuisance to
the community. But Jack faces his father coolly. He says that there is no love lost
between them and that he has given money to the woman only for maintaining the honour
of his family.