Who Is “The Admirable Crichton”?

Bill Crichton is the main character of James Barrie's 1902 play, once very well known but now rarely performed. Crichton is the perfect butler to a wealthy aristocrat, Lord Loam. He accompanies the family and some others on a voyage, on which they are shipwrecked on a desert island.

Once away from artificial social distinctions, Crichton quickly becomes the leader of the party due to his courage, resourcefulness and intelligence. The Loams gradually forget their former status and live contentedly under his rule. The eldest daughter, Lady Mary, falls in love with Crichton and they are about to be married when the party are rescued (with Crichton's help.)

Once back in London, the family resume their old hierarchy. Rather than behave dishonourably, Crichton accepts this and never betrays what really happened; but the audience is aware of his secret contempt for the Loams, and especially for Mary who, although she still loves him, doesn't have the courage to defy convention and admit it.

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