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4 min read
Random Acts of Kindness Day, held on 17th February each year, celebrates and encourages random acts of kindness. In honour of this day, we’ve created a list of the most benevolent characters in classic literature. From Jane Bennett and Beth March to Samwise Gamgee and Gandalf the Grey, these selfless characters never fail to warm the hearts of their readers.
“I know they meant to be just as good and kind as possible. And when people mean to be good to you, you don't mind very much when they're not quite—always.” (Anne Shirley)
Unique and spirited, Anne Shirley is a much loved literary heroine. She may not be perfect but she undoubtedly has a kind heart. Though her actions often get her into trouble, her intentions are always well-meaning and she is quick to admit her errors and ‘repent’. Where she is able to see her own flaws, she is also able to see the kindness and goodness in others, even when those around her cannot.
"Everyone felt how sweet and helpful Beth was, and fell into a way of going to her for comfort or advice in their small affairs."
Beth March is another unequivocally benevolent character. In contrast to Anne, she possesses a quiet sort of kindness, living to serve others and exist in her own truth. She is described as sweet and good, never complaining even when she is suffering. Unlike her sisters, she is content with smaller dreams like caring for her family and friends. Beth is a pure spirit and her benevolence comes from her complete selflessness.
“I have found that it is the small everyday deed of ordinary folks that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.” (Gandalf)
Gandalf is a benevolent presence throughout The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. His kindness is evident through his mentorship of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and his self-sacrifice. While his kindness is not overt, his quiet power, reliability, and willingness to help greater causes stems from an innate goodness and benevolence.
“You never see a fault in anybody. All the world are good and agreeable in your eyes. I never heard you speak ill of a human being in your life.” (Elizabeth Bennet to Jane)
Jane Bennet is consistently good and kind. She cares a great deal for her family, in particular her sister Elizabeth and often places the needs of others before her own. Where ‘Lizzy’ is impulsive, Jane is calm and collected. She is able to see the goodness in everyone and is never selfish, even when her regard for Mr Bingley becomes apparent. Her consistent care and goodness make her one of literature’s most benevolent characters.
“I do hope you won’t get into dreadful trouble on my account.” (Lucy to Mr Tumnus)
Lucy is the youngest and certainly the bravest of the Pevensie siblings. Her courage earns the title ‘Queen Lucy the Valiant’ in the magical land of Narnia. Though she is brave, she is also uncommonly kind and compassionate. Her great desire to help others, regardless of the danger she places herself in, shows the benevolence of her spirit. Though she is somewhat naïve, she ability to believe in the magic of Narnia and the goodness and righteousness of those around her never fails her.
“I'll never be like other people, but that's alright, because I'm a bear.” (Paddington)
This list would not be complete without the mannerly and benevolent Paddington Bear. Though he gets himself into all sorts of scrapes he, like L. M. Montgomery’s Anne Shirley, is well-intentioned. Playful and incorrigible, he is almost always on the verge of some disaster. Despite his tendency to get himself into scrapes, his cheery disposition and benevolent nature make him one of literature’s most loved bears!
“Sam is an excellent fellow, and would jump down a dragon’s throat to save you, if he did not trip over his own feet.” (Pippin about Sam)
There is more than one benevolent character in Tolkien’s works and Samwise Gamgee is another classic example. Brave, honest and selfless, he stands at Frodo’s side through thick and thin. His loyalty to Frodo and his courage in the face of danger teaches the true meaning of friendship. Sam has a big heart and his kindness stems from his honest desire to be selfless. His humility and down to earth nature make him an instantly likeable character.
Often, but not always, the most benevolent characters in classic literature appear in children’s books. Perhaps authors seek to teach children lessons about kindness or perhaps children are simply drawn to well-meaning characters. Do benevolence and goodness overlap? Quite possibly. Benevolence does not simply mean kindness towards others. It could be care, charity, humility, good intentions, positive actions, selflessness, care, truthfulness and compassion. All manner of traits that make the characters on this list truly benevolent.
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