The Pit · Character

Charles Cressler

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Cressler, a young man about town.

minor

Also known as Charlie, Charlie Cressler, Cressler, old Charlie

First appearance: i

Charles Cressler shows up with force in Principal Characters in the Novel. The page is where that presence becomes real.

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In II: Mr. Cressler, who is skeptical of Jadwin's interest in Laura and dislikes Corthell. Later, in Chapter III: Cressler is referenced as having earlier laughed at the idea of cornering wheat, influencing Jadwin's…

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Character Web

18 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Core Social Circle
Protagonist
Minor Pit Traders

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Narrative arc

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

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This scene is the dramatic climax because it reveals the psychological breaking point of Jadwin, who has shift…

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In the story

Charles Cressler appears across 9 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Principal Characters in the Novel
Introduced as a dealer in grain.
II
Mr. Cressler, who is skeptical of Jadwin's interest in Laura and dislikes Corthell.
Chapter III
Cressler is referenced as having earlier laughed at the idea of cornering wheat, influencing Jadwin's initial thoughts.
Chapter IV
Cressler delivers a fervent monologue against speculation, describing its destructive effects on young men and its impact on farmers and European peasants.
Chapter VII
Mentioned as warning about the risk of Jadwin losing money if he is speculating.
Chapter VIII
Observes the market with worry; feeds pigeons before trading and is approached by C. H. Crookes, who criticizes the 'Unknown Bull.'
Chapter IX
Cressler is reportedly sick and growing thinner, not going to his business, causing concern for his wife. Jadwin and Laura discuss visiting him.
Chapter X
His suicide is recalled by Laura, highlighting the human cost of speculation.
Conclusion
His suicide is recalled as a direct consequence of the wheat corner's collapse.

Chapter companion notes

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