The Jailer Character Analysis

The Jailer operates the prison in Athens where Theseus imprisons Arcite and Palamon. He is a just, sympathetic man who treats his prisoners with respect. Although the Jailer isn’t wealthy, he works hard to support his daughter, ensuring his daughter’s suitor, the Wooer, that she will inherit everything the Jailer has to offer. The Jailer’s love for his daughter compounds the foolishness and irrationality of her decision to free Palamon, an action that will almost certainly put her father’s life in danger. But the Jailer’s Daughter’s betrayal doesn’t tarnish the Jailer’s love for her, which he demonstrates by consulting with a Doctor after the Wooer returns the now-maddened young woman to her father’s custody. Although the Jailer initially resists the Doctor’s recommendation that the Wooer (disguised as Palamon) fulfills the daughter’s every desire—including her requests for physical intimacy—he ultimately acquiesces. The Jailer’s reluctant acceptance shows that while he cares about preserving his daughter’s supposed purity, it’s more important to him that she recovers her sanity. Lastly, Palamon expresses his gratitude to the just, respectful Jailer by ensuring that the Jailer and his daughter receive no punishment for his escape. Palamon also rewards the daughter with a generous dowry for her future marriage.