Secondary Characters in Lolita
Charlotte Haze
Charlotte Haze, Lolita's mother, serves as a crucial catalyst in the narrative despite her relatively brief appearance. Her character represents the conventional suburban American mother, whose presence both enables and obstructs Humbert's obsession with Lolita.
NoteCharlotte's death by car accident is a pivotal moment that sets the main plot in motion, allowing Humbert unrestricted access to Lolita.
Key characteristics:
- Desperately seeks cultural sophistication
- Shows blind romantic devotion to Humbert
- Exhibits a complex, often strained relationship with her daughter
"The poor lady was in her middle thirties, she had a shiny forehead, plucked eyebrows and quite simple but not unattractive features..."
Clare Quilty
Quilty emerges as Humbert's sinister double and ultimate rival. His presence haunts the narrative, often appearing in glimpses and hints before his full revelation.
TipPay attention to the recurring mentions of Quilty throughout the novel - they form a pattern of pursuit that mirrors Humbert's own obsession.
Significant aspects:
- Represents a darker version of Humbert's perversion
- Playwright and intellectual, matching Humbert's cultural sophistication
- Functions as both pursuer and pursued
"He was somebody's old flame, not mine. Cancer of the brain had stretched him out at last..."
Miss Pratt and Other School Officials
These characters serve as representatives of the institutional framework that Humbert must navigate to maintain his facade of normalcy.
Key functions:
- Provide social legitimacy to Humbert's guardianship
