Man and Wife · Character

Joel Dethridge

Hester Dethridge's husband, a cruel man.

minor

First appearance: The Manuscript

Joel Dethridge shows up with force in The Manuscript. The page is where that presence becomes real.

Hester's husband; a drunkard who squanders her money, beats her, and causes her to lose jobs.

Joel Dethridge first appears in 0083 liv the manuscript.

In The Manuscript: Hester's husband; a drunkard who squanders her money, beats her, and causes her to lose jobs.

Later, in II: The young man Hester marries; a paperhanger with a beautiful voice.

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.

This is the dramatic climax because the narrator reaches an absolute emotional and psychological nadir, declar…

Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.

Joel Dethridge appears across 5 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Manuscript
Hester's husband; a drunkard who squanders her money, beats her, and causes her to lose jobs.
II
The young man Hester marries; a paperhanger with a beautiful voice.
VII
Hester's abusive husband, whose ill usage drives her to desperation.
VIII
Hester's abusive husband who steals her furniture and knocks her down, causing lasting injury.
Chapter IX
Hester's abusive husband, who returns and forces his way into the house.

Chapter companion notes

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