Who William Dobbin is
William Dobbin is a captain in the same regiment as his closest friend, George Osborne. He is tall and awkward, and his background as a grocer's son forms part of his place in society. Among people pursuing money and rank, his steady loyalty offers a different measure of worth.
What William Dobbin wants
Dobbin quietly loves Amelia Sedley, but he says nothing about his feelings and expects nothing from her. Amelia has loved George since childhood, leaving Dobbin in the background of her affections. He continues to help her more than she knows, without asking her to thank him.
William Dobbin and the others in the story
As a lonely schoolboy, Dobbin finds a friend in George and gives him lasting loyalty. Their friendship brings together George's habit of being admired and Dobbin's readiness to stand by him.
His care for Amelia shows the real affection that exists alongside the novel's greed and social calculation. Other characters regard his loyalty as foolish, while Thackeray leaves room to question the value of such patience.
Questions
Who is William Dobbin in Vanity Fair?
William Dobbin is an army captain, a grocer's son and George Osborne's closest friend.
Does William Dobbin love Amelia Sedley?
Yes, he loves Amelia quietly, although her heart belongs to George Osborne. He supports her without expecting a reward.