Character Analysis
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.
James Morland Timeline