Character Analysis
Hello, plot device.
Although he's given very little screen time, the Professor, who's a higher-up in a spy agency, plays a key role in North by Northwest because he gives both Thornhill and the audience key pieces of information. Without his info, Thornhill wouldn't know what the heck is going on. In fact, he doesn't until well into the film.
The Professor won't rescue Thornhill because of the risk to the larger mission. It's only when he realizes that Thornhill can be of help that he clues him in to what's happening. Even then, he only discloses what's absolutely necessary:
THORNHILL: I never caught your name.
PROFESSOR: I never pitched it.
The Professor puts Eve at great risk because she can provide important intelligence if she goes off to Europe with Vandamm. Thornhill reams him out for his cold-heartedness, but he says:
PROFESSOR: War is hell, Mr. Thornhill. Even when it's a cold one.
The Professor's the main mouthpiece for the film's Cold War message. Intrigued? See our "Themes" section for more deets.
The Professor's Timeline