William Henry Devereaux Jr. (Hank)
Hank, also known as William Henry Devereaux Jr., is the central character and narrator of Richard Russo's novel Straight Man. As an English professor in a small university, Hank is witty, intelligent, and endowed with a sharp sense of humor. However, he is also burdened with many personal and professional struggles that contribute to his complex and relatable character.
Hank's defining traits are his penchant for sarcasm and clever wordplay. He uses humor as a defense mechanism, often resorting to irony and satire to cope with the absurdities of his life. Hank's witty observations and humorous anecdotes provide an entertaining lens through which the reader experiences the world of academia.
Despite his humorous façade, Hank grapples with various challenges. He finds himself stuck in the role of an interim department chair, caught between the whims and demands of his colleagues and superiors. Hank's frustrations and insecurities become apparent as the pressure mounts, leading to outlandish and comical scenarios.
Beneath his sarcastic exterior, Hank possesses a genuine love for literature and teaching. He is passionate about his subject matter and genuinely cares about his students' education. Through Hank's interactions with his students and his approach to teaching, the novel explores the transformative power of education and the importance of fostering a love for learning.
Hank's personal life is also a significant aspect of his character. His relationship with his wife, Nanette, provides a source of stability and support amid the chaos of his professional life. Their interactions showcase the enduring nature of their bond and the strength of their partnership.
Throughout the novel, Hank undergoes a journey of self-discovery, grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and the passage of time. His character development revolves around the themes of a midlife crisis, the search for meaning, and the complexities of human relationships. As the story progresses, Hank navigates his personal and professional challenges with resilience, gradually gaining insights into his desires and aspirations.
Hank's relatability and depth make him an engaging and memorable character in the novel. His combination of wit, vulnerability, and intellectual curiosity enables readers to connect with his experiences, making him an effective vehicle for exploring broader themes of humor, academia, and the complexities of life.
Nanette O'Reilly
Hank's wife, Nanette, is a caring and understanding woman who supports Hank despite his eccentricities and shortcomings. She works as a nurse and acts as a stabilizing force in Hank's life. Nanette represents love, patience, and loyalty.
Gracie DuBois
A secretary in the English department, Gracie is portrayed as an eccentric and eccentrically dressed woman with a flair for dramatics. She often adds to the chaos of the department but has a kind heart and good intentions. Gracie's character serves as comic relief and highlights the peculiarities of academic life.
Edward Fairchild
A pompous and self-centered English professor, Edward is a source of frustration for Hank. He is known for his over-the-top behavior, including reciting Shakespearean monologues during staff meetings. Edward embodies the pretentiousness and inflated egos often found in academia.
Arthur "Orca" Tripp
Hank's colleague and friend, Arthur, is an overweight, eccentric professor specializing in American literature. Despite his appearance and unconventional behavior, Arthur is highly intelligent and well-respected in his field. He serves as a counterbalance to the novel's more rigid and conventional characters.
