Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Timothy, Father

Phillip's father is a model of manly conscience at the beginning of the novel. He does his duty in the war effort by staying on the island while the rest of his family flees. Once Phillip becomes a castaway, the West Indian man Timothy takes Phillip's father's place, becoming the most significant male presence in the book. Eventually Phillip and Timothy will switch roles, as Phillip must take care of the ailing Timothy.