The Library
of Alexandria

A character in Agnes Grey

Who is Nancy Brown?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23. Okt 2026

In short

  • Nancy Brown is an elderly, nearly blind cottager in Anne Brontë's novel Agnes Grey.
  • She is often alone, and Agnes visits her beyond the wealthy household where she works.
  • Her friendship gives Agnes the chance to be valued as a person rather than an employee.

Who Nancy Brown is

Nancy Brown lives among the poor villagers whom Agnes visits away from Horton Lodge. She is nearly blind and often alone, but Agnes finds real friendship in her company. Agnes reads to Nancy and listens to her, giving their visits a warmth missing from her working life.

Nancy Brown and the others in the story

Nancy values Agnes's visits, and their friendship contrasts with the distance Agnes experiences among her employers. With Nancy, she finds companionship that rests on attention and kindness rather than social rank.

Questions

Who is Nancy Brown in Agnes Grey?

Nancy Brown is an elderly cottager who becomes Agnes's friend. She is nearly blind and spends much of her time alone.

What does Agnes do for Nancy Brown?

Agnes visits Nancy, reads to her, and listens to her.

Why does Nancy Brown matter to Agnes?

Nancy offers Agnes genuine friendship outside the household where she works. Their visits let Agnes feel valued beyond her duties as a governess.

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