Who Anne Catherick is
Anne Catherick appears before Walter Hartright as he walks home near London. Dressed entirely in white, she asks for help, and her fear and strange manner trouble him. Soon afterward, Walter learns that she has escaped from an asylum.
Anne Catherick and the others in the story
Anne has ties to Limmeridge House, where Walter takes a job as a drawing teacher. There he meets Laura Fairlie, a young heiress who bears a striking resemblance to Anne. Anne also has a connection to Laura's family, making the encounter on the road more than an isolated mystery.
Anne fears Sir Percival Glyde, the man Laura has promised to marry. That fear casts a shadow over the engagement and raises questions about Laura's future. Anne's connection with Limmeridge helps draw Walter into an investigation of deception and abuse.
Questions
Who is the woman in white?
The woman in white is Anne Catherick, the frightened stranger who asks Walter Hartright for help.
How is Anne Catherick connected to Laura Fairlie?
Anne has a connection to Laura's family and closely resembles Laura. She also has ties to Limmeridge House.
Whom does Anne Catherick fear?
Anne fears Sir Percival Glyde, Laura Fairlie's prospective husband. Her fear gives Walter reason to question the circumstances surrounding Laura's engagement.
