Juno and the Paycock Character Analysis

Juno Boyle

Juno Boyle is the emotional and practical center of the Boyle family, a sharp-witted, hardworking woman who holds her crumbling household together amid political unrest and financial hardship. As Jack’s wife, she shoulders the… read analysis of Juno Boyle

“Captain” Jack Boyle

Jack Boyle, known mockingly as “the Captain,” is the boastful, work-shy patriarch of the Boyle family. Despite his grand naval stories and swaggering manner, he is largely defined by his laziness, selfishness, and dependence on… read analysis of “Captain” Jack Boyle

Johnny Boyle

Johnny Boyle stays mostly withdrawn, haunted by his past involvement in the IRA and the violent consequences that followed. He lost an arm and damaged his hip in the fighting, and he now lives in… read analysis of Johnny Boyle

Mary Boyle

Mary Boyle presents herself as confident and modern, often dressing stylishly and joining her coworkers in labor strikes. She seeks something better than her family’s poverty and places her hopes in Charles Bentham, whose… read analysis of Mary Boyle

“Joxer” Daly

Joxer Daly thrives on charm, drink, and flattery. He attaches himself to Jack Boyle, encouraging Jack’s laziness while offering fake wisdom and endless proverbs. Joxer brings nothing to the table but excuses and an… read analysis of “Joxer” Daly

Charles Bentham

Charles Bentham arrives in the Boyle household as a well-spoken, confident solicitor who brings news of a major inheritance. He impresses the family with his education, polite manners, and refined speech. He grows close to… read analysis of Charles Bentham

Mrs. Maisie Madigan

Mrs. Madigan is a loud, lively, and affectionate neighbor who brings energy and humor into the Boyle household. She loves to reminisce, especially about Mary’s birth, and she enjoys singing and drinking at social… read analysis of Mrs. Maisie Madigan

Minor Characters

Jerry Devine

Jerry Devine is a young, earnest union organizer who once courted Mary and still harbors feelings for her. He is steady, practical, and hopeful about his future career. Though he offers support when Mary faces disgrace, he quietly retreats when he learns she is pregnant.

“Needle” Nugent

Nugent is a tailor who makes his money selling his services to both sides of the conflict. At one point, he shows up to the Boyle apartment with Joxer to repossess a suit he sold to Jack on credit.

Robbie Tancred

Robbie Tancred is an IRA soldier who is murdered under mysterious circumstances. His death haunts Johnny, who is eventually accused of betraying Robbie.

Mrs. Tancred

Mrs. Tancred is Robbie Tancred’s mother. She becomes disillusioned with the IRA and the conflict in general following Robbie’s death.

Jennie Claffey

Jennie Claffey is a young woman who lost her job unjustly, at least according to Mary. It is for Jenny’s sake that Mary is on strike.

Father Farrell

Father Farrell is a local priest who tries to help Jack get a job. He is only ever mentioned by others and never actually appears in the play.