The Nigger of the Narcissus · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in The Nigger of the Narcissus by Joseph Conrad.
Skim names here — open a free preview to see character cards and Character Web beside the page as you read.
James Wait
major
Also known as Wait, Jimmy, Jim, Decidedly James Wait
A black sailor who joins the Narcissus late and takes to his bunk, turning his failing body into a stage for the crew's pity, guilt, and dread.
Donkin
major
Also known as And Donkin, the fascinating Donkin
A whining, work-shy Cockney who trades on other men's grievances, forever cadging tobacco and whispering mutiny into the forecastle's discontent.
Belfast
supporting
Also known as Little Belfast, Emotional little Belfast, illogical Belfast, Absurd little Belfast
A hot-tempered, tenderhearted sailor whose fierce devotion to the dying Wait turns him gentle as a nurse and dangerous as a brawler.
Old Singleton
supporting
Also known as Singleton, Venerable Singleton, old Singleton
The Narcissus's ancient, unbreakable able seaman, who has outlasted crews and captains and keeps the old sea's silence like a creed.
Mr. Baker
supporting
Also known as Baker, aft Mr. Baker
The Narcissus's chief mate, gruff and watchful, who musters the crew and keeps every man's nose to the grindstone with bloodthirsty grumbling.
Captain Allistoun
supporting
Also known as Poor Captain Allistoun
The Narcissus's iron-grey captain, who loves his ship, drives her hard, and rules his small world from the poop with few words and cutting reproofs.
Young Charley
minor
Also known as Charley, Only Charley, young Charley
A young, inexperienced sailor learning the ropes aboard the Narcissus.
Archie
minor
Also known as Unemotional Archie
A calm, steady sailor who remains level-headed among the crew.
Mr. Creighton
minor
Also known as Creighton, Tall young Mr. Creighton
The second mate, a young officer assisting with navigation and discipline.
Knowles
minor
Also known as Lame Knowles, dirty Knowles, lame Knowles, Pacific Knowles
A lame sailor who gossips and comments on shipboard events.
Wamibo
minor
A Finnish sailor known for his strange behavior and limited English.
Podmore
minor
The ship's cook, who becomes religiously fervent during the voyage.
Davis
minor
A sailor who participates in the crew's discussions and actions.
The Finn
minor
A Finnish sailor, quiet and somewhat mysterious among the crew.
Dutchy
minor
A Dutch sailor who is part of the crew on the Narcissus.
