Role Of Sir Philip In Cumberland

In Cumberland, Sir Philip takes on the role of a menacing figure. His intimidating behavior escalates when he endeavors to unlawfully seize common land, harm Peter, and coerce Kit into marrying him. Initially, Sir Philip unlawfully appropriates the common land belonging to Peter's family and other farmers, an act which is deemed unacceptable. Due to the untrustworthiness of most magistrates, there is a sense that some may be corrupt and colluding with Sir Philip, making it difficult for the farmers to seek justice. Peter recounts, “No one wanted to [take him to court]. We didn’t have much money for lawyers, and we didn’t trust them either” (17). During the 1600s, finding a dependable lawyer who could assist without divulging information was

Additionally, Sir Philip's plot to have Peter killed was unwarranted. Peter, being just a child, impulsively threw a rock at Philip in fear of his life. Furthermore, Sir Philip lacked the time and strategy to carry out an effective plan for Peter's demise. Overhearing an actor remark, “poor little devil hasn’t a chance” (48), Peter discerns the dangerous nature of Sir Philip. Another actor further clarifies: “Attempted murder. Heaved a rock at his lordship” (48). The repeated attempted murders provide unequivocal evidence for the severe punishment warranted for Sir Philip, not Peter. Moreover, Sir Philip's endeavor to coerce Kit into marrying him for her estate exposes his selfish intentions. Kit reveals, “The man is a brute. He doesn’t care about me, really – treats me like a child. All he wants to do is to lay hands on my estate. That’s why he tried to fix up a formal public engagement, before I was old enough to realize how serious it all was” (116-7). Sir Philip's scheme for public engagement aims to deceive the townspeople and ensure he gains access to Kit's