Eleanor Pargiter
In The Years, we are introduced to Eleanor across different timelines in her life. The novel begins in the 1880s when she’s 22 years, by the end, she’s in her 70s. As the oldest of siblings, Eleanor is essentially responsible for the entire household and her six siblings. This comes to light more clearly at the beginning when her mother, Mrs. Pargiter dies, leaving her in charge. Eleanor dedicates all her time and effort on taking care of her family. Throughout her life in the novel, she’s traveling. She’s been to Spain and India. Earlier in her life, she dedicated everything she had taking care of her family. She often regrets not doing the things she wanted like most of her siblings. In her old age, she compensates by traveling all around the world. Despite the epic adventures she’s had, she sometimes feels like she lost something she can never get back.
Colonel Abel Pargiter
Abel is a retired soldier. He is the father of Eleanor, Edward, Milly, Delia, Morris, Rose, and Martin. Mrs. Pargiter, Abel’s wife and mother of his children are terminally ill. During this time, The Colonel has been having an affair with Mira. He doesn’t feel guilty about it since her terminally sick wife is unable to meet his needs. After the death of Mrs. Pargiter, Abel becomes conflicted with the idea of telling Eleanor about Mira. Eleanor has had to sacrifice so much taking care of her father in his old age. He figures that by this point, nothing good will come out of telling Eleanor.
Delia Pargiter
Delia is one of Abel Pargiter’s daughters. She has been feeling trapped with the inevitability of her mother’s death. She wishes Mrs. Pargiter would die soon, to spare her and the family of this great loss. Before her mother dies, all her children except Delia comes by her bedside to bid farewell. At the funeral, she preoccupied with other things to keep her mind away from grieving her mother. Delia then goes missing for most parts of the novel. It is claimed that she has been married for a long time. Only rumors are heard of her life. She grows into a strong and proud woman.
Martin Pargiter
Martin is Abel Pargiter’s son and Eleanor’s brother. Martin loves to travel and learn about different cultures. He often writes to Eleanor, telling her of the epic adventures he’s experienced. Martin’s adventurous mentality finally influences Eleanor to travel and experience new things. Later, Martin is in his forties and still unmarried. As Martin goes through his father’s belongings he finds out about Mira and the affair.
Morris Pargiter
Morris, also one of Abel Pargiter’s sons. He successfully becomes a lawyer. Morris marries Celia. Together, they have three children. Eleanor frequently visits Morris and his family. In the novel, it is hinted that Eleanor admires Morris’s life and family. She often wishes she had such a life.
Rose Pargiter
Rose is also one of Abel’s daughters. She used to be in the military. Rose is dedicated to her philanthropic endeavors. She remains unmarried even in her forties. It is revealed that Rose had been arrested for assault after taking part in a protest. She is later released and awarded a medal for military service. Rose returns to what she loves to do, fighting injustices.
