James Morland in Northanger Abbey

James Morland

Catherine's older brother is definitely in the running for best brother in this book. James is generally nice to his sister and his parents and overall seems like a dutiful and kind brother and son. Unfortunately, James, much like his sister Catherine, is not the best judge of character. His friendship with John Thorpe and his ill-fated engagement to Isabella are indicative of this particular character flaw. James is a bit naive, though he seems to suspect that something is seriously amiss with Isabella's behavior fairly early. James definitely learns a harsh lesson about trusting people and forming relationships in the book, and it is a lesson that he imparts to Catherine, like a good, protective older brother.