Evelina · Character

Mr. Macartney

A melancholy Scottish poet who lodges near the Branghtons and befriends Evelina.

minor

Also known as poor Mr. Macartney, the unhappy Mr. Macartney

First appearance: letter xviii evelina in continuation

Mr. Macartney shows up with force in Letter XLII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars. The page is where that presence becomes real.

A poor Scottish poet lodging with the Branghtons, observed in deep mourning and melancholy, briefly appearing and then retiring.

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In Letter XLII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars: A poor Scottish poet lodging with the Branghtons, observed in deep mourning and melancholy, briefly appearing and then retiring. Later, in Letter XLIII: Evelina in…

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Character Web

17 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Evelina's family and antagonists
Evelina's social circle
Protagonist

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it represents the emotional and psychological peak of Evelina's cr…

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In the story

Mr. Macartney appears across 10 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Letter XLII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars
A poor Scottish poet lodging with the Branghtons, observed in deep mourning and melancholy, briefly appearing and then retiring.
Letter XLIII: Evelina in Continuation
The desperate young man; attempts suicide with pistols but is stopped by Evelina's intervention.
Letter XLV: Evelina in Continuation
The 'unfortunate North Briton' sitting in the shop, treated rudely by the Branghtons; Evelina shows him civility.
Letter XLVIII: Evelina in Continuation
Found in the Branghtons' shop looking wretched; he is agitated and speaks of misery and despair, eventually receiving Evelina's purse.
Letter LI: Evelina in Continuation
Mr. Macartney writes a long letter detailing his tragic past, his near-parricide, his mother's death, and his descent into desperation.
Letter LXVI: Evelina in Continuation
Mr. Macartney has traveled to Clifton to thank Evelina and repay a debt. He appears improved in health but still melancholy. He is unaware of the complications his visit causes.
Letter LXVII: Mr. Villars to Evelina
Briefly mentioned; Mr. Villars notes he is glad to hear of his welfare.
Letter LXX: Evelina in Continuation
Meets Evelina at the pump-room; reveals the young lady is Sir John Belmont's daughter, implying he is Evelina's brother.
Letter LXXX: Evelina in Continuation
Mr. Macartney is present at Sir John's house and is welcomed by Lord Orville as a future brother.
Letter LXXXI: Evelina in Continuation
Delivers a message and a draught for a thousand pounds from Sir John Belmont to Evelina.

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See Mr. Macartney in letter xviii evelina in continuation

See Mr. Macartney in Letter XLII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars