# Tramp — Short Plays character guide

> Tramp in Short Plays by J. M. Synge.

**Role:** supporting

**Also known as:** Tramp Trembling, Tramp Standing, Tramp Filling, The Tramp, Tramp Drinking, Tramp Speaking

**First appearance:** 0000-in-the-shadow-of-the-glen

## Snapshot

A wandering stranger who steps out of the rain into a wake-house, trades a needle for shelter, and witnesses more than he bargained for.

## Who they are

The Tramp walks to Brittas from the Aughrim fair and knocks at the last cottage in the glen, hoping for milk and a corner to sleep. He takes the needle Nora gives him and stitches his coat while murmuring the De Profundis, uneasy at the queer look on the shrouded body. When the sheet moves and Dan Burke sits up demanding whisky, the Tramp becomes the play's unwilling witness and the audience's eyes.

## Relationships

### [Nora Burke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se/characters/nora_burke)

_romantic_

Nora is drawn to the Tramp's freedom and charm, sharing a flirtatious and escapist bond with him.

### [Micheal Dara](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se/characters/micheal_dara)

_rivalry_

Micheal Dara sees the Tramp as a rival for Nora's affection, leading to silent competition.

### [Dan Burke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se/characters/dan_burke)

_rivalry_

Dan Burke views the Tramp as a threat to his household and marriage, showing open hostility.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se/characters/tramp
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_plays_2_se/characters