Adeline Mowbray

In the novel, Opie explores what might happen when a woman's idealistic philosophical beliefs conflict with society's notions about female sexuality.

She therefore refuses marriage to Frederic Glenmurray (modelled on William Godwin), and instead chooses to live with him as his sexual equal.

After Glenmurray dies, Adeline seeks protection by marrying the abusive Mr Berrendale, who ultimately abandons her and their daughter, Editha.

Adeline repents having transgressed society's expectations of women, and before she dies leaves instructions on how Editha is to be educated.

[1] The Critical Review did, however, accuse Opie of idealising 'vice' by portraying the loving relationship between Adeline and Glenmurray so positively.