Phineas Redux · Character

Plantagenet Palliser

Now Duke of Omnium, a scrupulous, self-effacing statesman whose quiet integrity makes him almost invisible to smaller men — until they push too far.

supporting

Also known as Mr. Palliser, Palliser, Plantagenet

First appearance: The Duke's Will

As a supporting figure in Phineas Redux, Plantagenet Palliser is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Palliser is the rare politician who cares more for decimal coinage and honest government than for the theatre of office, and his new dukedom only deepens his detachment from the snarls of lesser colleagues. He absorbs rudeness without noticing it and gives even his enemies credit for good intentions, which makes him seem weak to men like Bonteen. But when the little dog finally takes the big dog by the ear, Palliser's paw comes down — and the political landscape of the novel shifts.

See Plantagenet Palliser in The Duke's Will Book page

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Character Web

28 connections

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Political and social circle
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Narrative arc

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

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This scene represents the dramatic climax because it depicts the emotional and psychological peak of Mr. Kenne…

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In the story

Plantagenet Palliser appears across 16 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Debate
Seen by Mr. Gresham as a former Chancellor of the Exchequer under him.
XIV: Trumpeton Wood
Heir to the Duke, a statesman uninterested in sport, refuses to interfere in the Trumpeton Wood dispute.
Madame Goesler Is Sent For
Mentioned as the nephew who will inherit the dukedom; discussed in terms of his political role as Chancellor of the Exchequer.
XXV: “I Would Do It Now”
Visits his uncle twice daily but focuses on decimal coinage work. Indifferent to the Duke's complaints about foxes and woods.
The Duke's Will
Becomes Duke of Omnium upon his uncle's death; he is distressed by the change, especially losing his seat in the House of Commons.
XXX: Regrets
Now the Duke of Omnium; attempts to persuade Madame Goesler to accept the legacy, arguing the seriousness of the will; is resisted.
The Duke and Duchess in Town
Now Duke of Omnium, he is shy about his new position but remains politically active, hosting the party meeting at his house.
XL: The Prime Minister Is Hard Pressed
The younger duke, influenced by his wife's campaign against Bonteen.
The Second Thunderbolt
Now Duke of Omnium and Lord Privy Seal; clashes with Bonteen over decimal coinage and is described as fearless and oblivious to insolence.
The Duchess Takes Counsel
The younger Duke; cautions the Duchess against misdirected enthusiasm.
The Two Dukes
The Duke of Omnium, who decides to take Mr. Bonteen's place at the Board of Trade to advance his decimal reform, despite concerns about the propriety of the move.
Mr. Chaffanbrass for the Defence
The Duke of Omnium, who urges caution and acceptance of the jury's verdict, though he later breaks his resolution.
The Trumpeton Feud Is Settled
The Duke of Omnium, though not directly involved in the negotiation, is the owner of Trumpeton Wood and agrees to the changes through his wife's mediation.
Madame Goesler's Legacy
The Duke awkwardly explains the legacy arrangement to Gerard and agrees to give Adelaide away.
The Last Visit to Saulsby
Now Duke of Omnium; described as unchanged with a simple dignity.
At Last—At Last
The Duke expresses sorrow at Phineas's refusal but says no more.

Chapter companion notes

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See Plantagenet Palliser in The Duke's Will