County Attorney In Trifles, By Susan Glaspell

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Recommended: The portrayal of women in 19th century literature

In Trifles, by Susan Glaspell, there are many character types. The character type that is most recurrent throughout the play is the ego-centric county attorney. County Attorney Henderson is ego-centric in the aspect that he can never be wrong, because of this he treats others like he is above them, and it causes him to miss important clues in the case. One way that the county attorney comes off as self-centered is the way he addresses the women in the play. As soon as Henderson approaches the women, he says, “[With the gallantry of a young politician] And yet for all their worries, what would we do without the ladies? [The women do not unbend. He goes to the sink, takes a dipperful of water from the pail and pouring it into a basin washes his hands. Starts to wipe it on a roller towel, turns it for a cleaner place.] Dirty towels! [Kicks his foot against the pans under the sink.] Not much of a housekeeper would you say, ladies?” (p.1158) This quote from the county attorney represents his ego-centric personality because of the way he lacks respect for …show more content…

Wright. Henderson takes on the murder by himself when he says, “I’m going to stay here a while by myself. [To the sheriff.] You can send Frank out for me can’t you? I want to go over everything. I’m not satisfied I can’t do better”(p.1164). Henderson’s confidence is overwhelming. He has overlooked the entire motive and evidence collected by the women, and is sure he can figure things out by himself. If he was not self-indulged, he would eagerly ask for input from those around him. The county attorney also clearly brushes off the sheriff when he says: SHERIFF. [Chuckling.]. Married to the law. [Moves toward the other room.] I just want you to come in here a minute, George. We ought to take a look at these windows. COUNTY ATTORNEY. [Scoffingly.] Oh, windows! (p.

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