The Trail of the Serpent · Character
Mrs. Marwood
Richard Marwood's mother.
minor
Also known as a Mrs. Marwood, Mr. and Mrs. Marwood
First appearance: iv richard marwood lights his pipe
Mrs. Marwood shows up with force in Good for Nothing. The page is where that presence becomes real.
Richard's mother, who has waited seven years in anxiety, joyfully welcomes her prodigal son.
Mrs. Marwood first appears in 0004 iv richard marwood lights his pipe.
In Good for Nothing: Richard's mother, who has waited seven years in anxiety, joyfully welcomes her prodigal son.
Later, in VI: Two Coroner’s Inquests: Richard's mother; expresses her surprise at his disappearance and reveals his unexpected return; later falls ill from anguish but insists on her son's innocence.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This chapter marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Valerie’s s…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Mrs. Marwood appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
- Good for Nothing
- VI: Two Coroner’s Inquests
- IX: “Mad, Gentlemen of the Jury”
- I: Blind Peter
- I: The Boy from Slopperton
- Mr. Peters Relates How He Thought He Had a Clue, and How He Lost It
- Farewell to England
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Mrs. Marwood unlock in the free preview.
See Mrs. Marwood in iv richard marwood lights his pipe