Foe

by

J. M. Coetzee

Wilkes Character Analysis

Wilkes is the lead bailiff who takes up residence in Mr. Foe’s house, hoping to arrest Foe as soon as he returns; in the 1700s, this was common practice for bailiffs, who were the primary arresting officers of the law. The novel portrays Wilkes and his unnamed companion as slovenly and unpleasant.
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Wilkes Character Timeline in Foe

The timeline below shows where the character Wilkes appears in Foe. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Part 2
Embellishment vs. Deception Theme Icon
...Thrush, Mr. Foe’s maid, who confesses that she fears for Mr. Foe’s safety. The bailiff Wilkes and his companion have made themselves comfortable in Stoke Newington, and they are adamant that... (full context)
Storytelling and Power Theme Icon
Embellishment vs. Deception Theme Icon
Gender and Creation Theme Icon
...been watching the house for several days. At last, Susan gives her letters, first for Wilkes and then for Mr. Foe. But the girl claims not to know either of them... (full context)