Mr. Hollingsworth

The Blithedale Romance

A fervent reformer dedicated to his philanthropic project.

Old Moodie

Mentioned by Coverdale as an older, more solid philanthropist who might suit Moodie's purpose.

Blithedale

Mentioned as having agreed to join the group but was accidentally delayed and set forth alone later.

A Knot of Dreamers

Mentioned as a laggard who has not yet arrived; Zenobia praises his voice and philanthropic passion, though she admits she usually dislikes philanthropists.

IV: The Supper-Table

Brings Priscilla to Blithedale, defends her against Zenobia's initial coldness, and urges the community to treat her with kindness.

Until Bedtime

Hollingsworth is withdrawn and taciturn, absorbed in his own thoughts about criminal reform. He shows little interest in the socialist scheme.

VI: Coverdale’s Sick-Chamber

Builds a fire in Coverdale's room, nurses him, and is described as a man of prayerful habits and inflexible purpose.

The Convalescent

Coverdale's friend, whose obsessive philanthropic project to reform criminals is revealed as a consuming, egotistical passion.

A Modern Arcadia

Seen returning from the field with a hoe; the object of Priscilla's eager approach and Zenobia's admiration.

IX: Hollingsworth, Zenobia, Priscilla

Depicted as consumed by his philanthropic scheme, lacking true human sympathy, and dangerously tender toward Priscilla.

A Visitor from Town

Engages with Old Moodie, answers his questions, and leads him to see Priscilla.

XI: The Wood-Path

Mocked by Westervelt as a 'holy and benevolent blacksmith' with a philanthropic scheme; Westervelt suggests he seeks funds from Zenobia.

XII: Coverdale's Hermitage

Observed driving oxen; Coverdale criticizes his philanthropic obsession.

Eliot's Pulpit

Delivers moving discourses from Eliot's Pulpit; is the object of Zenobia's affection and Priscilla's devotion.

XV: A Crisis

Intensely focused on his philanthropic scheme, he pressures Coverdale to join him and reveals plans to use Zenobia's wealth.

XVI: Leave-Takings

Passes Coverdale on the doorstep without acknowledgment, their friendship having ended after their quarrel.

XVIII: The Boardinghouse

Mentioned in Coverdale's thoughts and dreams, but not physically present in the chapter.

XIX: Zenobia’s Drawing-Room

Discussed by Coverdale and Zenobia; Zenobia defends his heroic character and his devotion to his one great idea.

XX: They Vanish

Referenced as the one who bade Priscilla go to Zenobia; Coverdale invokes his name, angering Zenobia.

A Village Hall

Seen by Coverdale at the hall; speaks briefly about Zenobia and later summons Priscilla to safety.

The Masqueraders

Dressed as a Puritan elder in the masquerade; later sits at Eliot's Pulpit with Priscilla and Zenobia.

The Three Together

Acts as judge and accuser in a private tribunal. He declares his love for Priscilla and is fiercely attacked by Zenobia for his selfishness.

XXVI: Zenobia and Coverdale

Referenced as the object of Zenobia's love and scorn; she accuses him of having a heart of ice but also defends him.

XXVII: Midnight

Summoned by Coverdale; helps retrieve Zenobia's body and is accused by Foster of wounding her breast.

Blithedale Pasture

Shows a depressed and melancholy look, presses close to Priscilla, and admits he has been busy with a single murderer (himself).

Miles Coverdale's Confession

Coverdale recalls Hollingsworth's criticism that he lacks a purpose, and notes Hollingsworth was ruined by an excess of purpose.