Character Analysis
Sir Wilfull Witwoud
The country bumpkin, as butt of the city wit, is a traditional character type in comedy. Like other characters in the play, Sir Wilfull does not quite conform to type. He is shown as having country manners: he calls for slippers; he drinks too heavily; he is very shy with Millamant, awed by the city lady. However, his intention to tour Europe even though he is well beyond the usual age for the grand tour is an odd characteristic, not observable in the type. He is justifiably angry in his encounter with his brother. His attitude in other matters suggests a sensible person; he certainly does not wish to marry Millamant if she does not choose; he obviously likes Mirabell, presumably a sign of good judgment, and gladly helps to foil Fainall.