Mr. Sharp

Character Analysis

Mr. Sharp is the second master of Salem House. He doesn't take a particular interest in David, as Mr. Mell does, so he basically fades into the background. His greatest moment comes when he sends David to the main office to hear the news that Mrs. Copperfield has passed away. Hearing that there's a message waiting, David assumes that it is a care package from Peggotty and scampers off. Mr. Sharp, out of pity for what David is about to find out, tells him not to rush: "There's time enough, my boy, don't hurry" (9.6). This sorrow on David's behalf is the most human thing we hear from Mr. Sharp.