coquette

Eliza Wharton

The main character of The Coquette who desires personal freedom, autonomy, and the ability to make her own life choices.

Reverend Boyer

A minister suitor who offers Eliza a safe, respectable, and traditional marriage.

Major Sanford

A charming, selfish, and untrustworthy suitor who attracts Eliza Wharton.

Coquette

A woman who flirts or enjoys receiving romantic attention.

Eliza Wharton's Internal Conflict

Her dilemma between choosing Major Sanford, who is exciting but untrustworthy, and Reverend Boyer, who is a safe and respectable choice.

Mrs. Richman

A friend of Eliza Wharton who gives her advice on societal expectations and relationships.

Julia Granby and Lucy Freeman

Two of Eliza Wharton's close friends with whom she exchanges letters.

Epistolary Format

The narrative style of The Coquette, which presents the story through a collection of letters.

Main Themes of The Coquette

The conflict between individual freedom and societal rules, female autonomy, and the pressure to marry.