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Hard Times · Character

Merrylegs

Signor Jupe's performing dog who returns alone to the circus.

minor

Also known as Merrylegs

First appearance: vi sleary s horsemanship

Merrylegs shows up with force in Mrs. Sparsit. The page is where that presence becomes real.

Merrylegs is mentioned by Sissy as being present when she read to her father, but Mr.
In the storyMrs. SparsitOpen this moment free

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In Mrs. Sparsit: Merrylegs is mentioned by Sissy as being present when she read to her father, but Mr. Gradgrind dismisses the…

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See Merrylegs in vi sleary s horsemanship

Character Web

6 connections

A slice of how Merrylegs sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

TGThomas GradgrindSJSissy JupeLGLouisa GradgrindJBJosiah BounderbyMSMr. SlearyMEMerrylegs

Relationship types

  • Other

Character groups

  • Circus Performers & Hidden Connections
  • Utilitarian Society & Oppressed Workers
  • Protagonist

+1 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

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

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because Louisa’s awakening from a "torpor" marks the emotional and psychol…

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In the story

Merrylegs appears across 1 companion beat. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Chapter companion notes

Spoil-light check-ins for Merrylegs unlock in the free preview.

See Merrylegs in vi sleary s horsemanship
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