Many English majors and literature lovers have concocted lists in their head regarding which fictional characters they would like to date. Here is my list.
1. Colonel Brandon, "Sense and Sensibility"
A largely accepted shoe-in for such a list, Colonel Brandon is perfect for Marriane Dashwood. He understands her relationship with Willoughby, waits patiently for her, is also interested in music, and always helps the Dashwoods in any capacity possible. Despite his age, he is a solid and dependable choice for marriage and is romantic without being flighty.
2. Augustus Waters - "The Fault in Our Stars"
As the romantic lead, he fits the bill perfectly for YA boyfriend. Augustus is empathetic, loving, goofy, and truly in love with Hazel Grace. I'm definitely not the only girl who fell for the cigarette scene, right? My one condition: if we go out on a date, I drive.
3. Robbie Turner- "Atonement"
Despite, Briony's accusations that he was guilty of rape, readers understand that he's not guilty. The ending, one of the most unfulfilling in literary history, always pains me as I wonder how the story could have ended for Robbie and Cecilia without that little Briony.
4. George Gibbs- "Our Town"
As the romantic lead in "Our Town," George Gibbs is not an outwardly romantic character, but I applaud the way in which he courts Emily. He also really changes his life to be with her, forgoing college and instead choosing to run a successful farm to be with her. George's final scene as Emily looks down on him from "Heaven" is especially heartbreaking. I have read this work three times and each time I do, I bawl my eyes out. His love is so simple and honest I can't help but be wooed. Blessed be the tie that binds.
5. Ned Nickerson- "Nancy Drew"
Despite Nancy Drew's often far fetched plots which Ned needs to save her from, Nick is a commendable "feminist." He doesn't question her mystery solving behaviors, and talks about marrying Nancy. He helps her on her adventures and is liked by all the people within his fraternity.
6. Leonard Woolf- "The Hours"
Leonard is the only man on this list who is a real person. Although he doesn't always understand Virginia, he gives her the benefit of the doubt. She creates her most famous work "Mrs. Dalloway" because of this. His ability to accept an unconventional domestic life and his ability to help Virginia pursue her art is revolutionary and really woos me.
7. Jesse Tuck - "Tuck Everlasting"
Jesse is one of the most understanding romantic leads in literature. Although he wants Winnie to drink from the eternal spring when she turns 17 in order to become immortal like him, he lets her choose. He understands her decision when he sees her grave years later, and let's be honest, when Winnie's frog is at the scene, it pulls at readers' heartstrings. For me, his romance isn't about passion but about understanding. He accepts a relationship that isn't eternal so Winnie can make the choice she wants to. Who doesn't want that in a man?
8. John Brooke - "Little Women"
Although Laurie's flirtation with Jo and then betrothal to Amy is almost creepy, John Brooke's dedication to Meg is apparent throughout their courtship. Plus, he is never afraid to prove his intelligence. Further, Brooke helps the March family when Papa is wounded. Most importantly, the scene in which he steals Meg's opera glove may be the single most innocent, humorous gesture in literature.
9. Robert Lebrun- "The Awakening"
This is the book that sparked my interest in studying literature when I was in high school. Robert Lebrun, although detestable for running out on Edna when the affair got rocky, really inspired her to seek personal fulfillment. What more can a woman ask of a man? Without his romantic pursuit, Edna would have remained static in a hapless marriage. As the first domino, Robert deserves a chance, at least in my eyes and heart.
10. Remus Lupin- "Harry Potter"
I would date Remus Lupin, because he is not afraid of dating an unconventional woman, case in point Tonks. Also, being a werewolf makes him sensitive to others' struggles. I am sure that the would be ready to carry on an intellectual courtship and also have the empathy to understand others' around us. Despite the fact that he can run off about once a month, I would totally date him, until the full moon.
11. Atticus Finch- "To Kill a Mockingbird"
First, if Atticus looks like Gregory Peck, that is why he is my fictional husband. Second, there is nothing more endearing than his commitment to justice and his ability to parent Scout and Jem without patronizing them. He makes the children carry themselves as upright citizens, more mature than most of the adults in the novel. Plus, he is a competent man's man, but doesn't like to show it. The scene where he shoots the dog always gets me. But what brings me to tears is when the whole balcony pays their respects as he leaves the courtroom. Cue my tears.
