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of Alexandria

A character in Agnes Grey

Who is Mr Weston?

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

In short

  • Mr Weston is the quiet village curate in Agnes Grey, Anne Brontë's novel about a young governess.
  • He visits poor villagers with genuine concern, unlike the rector, Mr Hatfield, who flatters the rich.
  • His small encounters with Agnes offer kindness beyond the loneliness of her work at Horton Lodge.

Who Mr Weston is

Mr Weston serves as the village curate, alongside the rector, Mr Hatfield. He is quiet, serious and sincere, and his concern for poor villagers shows through his visits.

Weston's conduct offers a contrast, giving Agnes reason to notice him beyond the great house.

Mr Weston and the others in the story

Agnes meets Mr Weston through small encounters, including conversations on the road and shared concern for a cottager. A moment of help matters to her in a life where others rarely treat her as an equal.

Agnes keeps her feelings private, wary of allowing herself to hope for more. Rosalie Murray begins to notice Agnes's interest in the curate, and her attention is not always kind.

What Mr Weston wants

Mr Weston's care for the poor is practical, expressed through visits and genuine attention. His kindness supports the novel's concern with integrity rather than social rank or outward polish.

Questions

Who is Mr Weston in Agnes Grey?

Mr Weston is the village curate, a quiet clergyman whose sincere kindness draws Agnes's attention.

How is Mr Weston different from Mr Hatfield?

Weston cares genuinely for poor villagers, while Hatfield favours the rich and shows little patience towards the poor.

Does Agnes have feelings for Mr Weston?

Yes, Agnes develops feelings for him but keeps them private. Their restrained encounters give her moments of kindness outside her employers' household.

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