The Wireless Set

Characters

Lord Haw-Haw is a radio broadcaster who remains a faceless character in the story, known only by his voice.
He is portrayed as an ominous and skilled orator, often referred to as a great liar, highlighting the sinister nature of his work.
The islanders are both fascinated and repelled by Lord Haw-Haw, and he attempts to brainwash them with his misinformation.
While the islanders are captivated by his propaganda, they are also powerless in the face of his broadcasts.
Lord Haw-Haw is described as deeply dangerous and determined, with his voice casting a spell on the inhabitants.

Betsy is a character who carries out traditional household tasks, and her life revolves around her religious beliefs and simple ambitions.
She is characterised as overprotective and somewhat naïve, as she anxiously asks Howie if he has been a good boy during his time away.
Betsy's questioning of Howie reflects her motherly concern, but she doesn't press the issue when he doesn't respond.

Hugh, like Betsy, is sceptical of modern advancements and their impact on their traditional way of life.
He is suspicious of the wireless and its predictions, expressing doubt about its accuracy, which is later proven correct.
As the story unfolds, Hugh's scepticism grows, indicating a stronger connection to an older, more basic way of life.

Diagram

When they receive news of Howie's death, Hugh and Betsy react in an understated manner, turning their conversations to work tasks rather than openly discussing their pain.

The inhabitants of Tronvik are portrayed as naive and easily mesmerised, particularly when Howie introduces the wireless to them.
Howie's gifts and attempts to modernise the community highlight a strong sense of community spirit in Tronvik.
Howie's experiences outside Tronvik have made him feel superior, and he believes that keeping up with modern advancements will prevent the community from being viewed as 'Clodhoppers' by others.
The minister's reaction to Hugh's response to Howie's death suggests a level of separation between the minister and the rest of the community, as he is taken aback by what he perceives as callousness.