Character Analysis
Much of this story centers around family. With all of Briony's teenage drama, spiritual battles, and romantic moments, however, it's easy for the family members to fall to the background. To keep it real though, we think it's important to note that without the death of Briony and Rose's mother, the girls might never have been in any danger physically or emotionally.
At the very least, Reverend Larkin wouldn't have become the worn down, struggling, emotionally drained man he became while trying to care for his daughters, and he most certainly wouldn't have married a Dark Muse who drained and almost killed him… only to move on to manipulating and using his daughters.
While we're on the topic of family, it's probably important to mention Pearl, who helps care for the girls pretty consistently throughout their lives and suffers the loss of her child early in the story. As for Eldric's family, we get no mention of a mother, but meet Mr. Clayborne as Father's friend. Mr. Clayborne's loving and jovial relationship with Eldric serves as a stark contrast to the strained relationship the Reverend has with his daughters, enhancing the darkness and isolation of Briony's life.