The Character Sketch of Will Wimble from the Essay "Sir Roger and Will Wimble" by Joseph Addison

Joseph Addison
by Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt

Will Wimble is a fictional character from the essay "Sir Roger and Will Wimble" (Spectator No. 108) written by Joseph Addison. He is portrayed as a contrasting figure to Sir Roger de Coverley, representing the social and political attitudes prevalent in early 18th-century England. While Sir Roger represents the archetype of a traditional country gentleman with his noble birth, extensive estate, and adherence to customs, Will Wimble serves as a stark contrast. Will, the younger brother of a baronet, lacks a specific occupation or inherited wealth. Instead, he lives as a dependant on his elder brother's estate, engaging in leisurely pursuits such as hunting and various handicrafts. Will's amiable and obliging nature endears him to all, making him a cherished figure in the community. 

At Sir Roger's house, a country fellow brought Roger a huge fish,which, he told him, Mr. William Wimble gifted him and handed him over a letter. The letter reads:

"Sir Roger,

I desire you to accept of a jack, which is the best I have caught this season. I intend to come and stay with you a week, and see how the perch bite in the Black River. I observed with some concern, the last time I saw you upon the bowling−green, that your whip wanted a lash to it; I will bring half a dozen with me that I twisted last week, which I hope will serve you all the time you are in the country. I have not been out of the saddle for six days last past, having been at Eton with Sir John's eldest son. He takes to his learning hugely.

I am, sir, your humble servant,

Will Wimble."

In fact, 'this extraordinary letter, and message that accompanied it, made me (the author) very curious to know the character and quality of the gentleman who sent them.' Will Wimble is described as a rather timid and inconspicuous individual. He is a small, weak man, physically unimposing compared to the robust and confident Sir Roger. Will's appearance reflects his meek and unassuming nature, with a posture that suggests a lack of self-assurance.

Will Wimble, the younger brother of a baronet and a descendant of the ancient Wimbles family, possesses a charming character that endears him to all. Despite being between forty and fifty years old, Will lacks a specific occupation or inherited wealth. Instead, he resides with his elder brother and assumes the role of overseeing their recreational activities. Renowned for his exceptional skills in hunting with a pack of dogs, Will has gained a reputation as an expert hare finder.

In addition to his prowess in the hunting field, Will possesses a wealth of knowledge in various leisurely pursuits. He exhibits great dexterity in the crafts that idle men often indulge in. Whether it be crafting intricate may-flies or providing the entire region with finely crafted fishing rods, Will's talents are admired by all. His good-natured and helpful demeanor, coupled with his esteemed family background, makes him a cherished guest in every household. Will maintains a robust network of friendships with the local gentry and is always welcomed with open arms.

Will's pockets are never empty of surprises. He carries tulip roots, exchanging them from one acquaintance to another or trading puppies between friends residing in distant corners of the county. His affable nature particularly resonates with the young heirs, whom he often delights by gifting them nets intricately woven by his own hands or setting dogs he has personally trained. To the delight of their mothers and sisters, Will presents his own knitted garters and never fails to bring laughter by inquiring about their wear when he encounters them. These gentlemanly creations and his obliging nature have made Will a beloved figure in the countryside.

In terms of personality, Will Wimble is characterized by his extreme social anxiety and constant need for validation from others. He is deeply concerned about how he is perceived by society and is always seeking social connections to bolster his own self-worth. Will is excessively eager to be part of the social circles and gatherings of the upper class, particularly those of Sir Roger.

Unlike Sir Roger, who values sincerity and authenticity, Will Wimble is depicted as a shallow and insincere individual. He readily adopts various personas and pretends to share interests and opinions that he believes will gain him favor with others. Will's lack of integrity is evident in his constant flattery and obsequious behavior towards those he considers important or influential.

Will Wimble's political views also differ significantly from those of Sir Roger. While Sir Roger adheres to traditional and conservative values, Will is portrayed as a political opportunist who readily changes his stance based on the prevailing opinion. He lacks a strong moral compass and is more concerned with personal gain and social acceptance than with standing up for his principles.

Will Wimble's situation reflects the common occurrence of younger brothers from distinguished families who prefer to see their children struggle financially rather than engage in trades or professions considered beneath their status. This mindset is prevalent across several parts of Europe, leading to both pride and destitution. In contrast, our trading nation offers opportunities for younger sons, even if they lack talent in traditional professions, to pursue paths that may enable them to rival their esteemed relatives. Will may have attempted divinity, law, or medicine, but his aptitude clearly suited him better for trade and commerce. But he did nothing. The author's reflections is quite noteworthy:

" How so good an heart and such busy hands were wholly employed in trifles; that so much humanity should be so little beneficial to others, and so much industry so little advantageous to himself. The same temper of mind and application to affairs might have recommended him to the public esteem, and have raised his fortune in another station of life. What good to his country or himself might not a trader or merchant have done with such useful though ordinary qualifications?"

Despite his flaws, Will Wimble is not portrayed as a malicious or intentionally deceitful character. Instead, he represents the weaknesses and insecurities that can be found in individuals striving to fit into social hierarchies. His character serves as a foil to Sir Roger, highlighting the stark contrast between genuine authenticity and superficiality in society.

Overall, Will Wimble is a timid, socially anxious, and insincere individual who constantly seeks validation and acceptance from others. His character embodies the flaws and pitfalls of conforming to societal expectations, making him a compelling figure in the essay "Sir Roger and Will Wimble."

Ardhendu De

References

1. The Works Of Joseph Addison (vol V) : Joseph Addison : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.152732