The Open Window

Framton Nuttel is the protagonist of “The Open Window.” The static, flat character does not grow during the story, and he embodies anxiety and nervousness with little additional characterization. No description is given of Framton appearance. The only external characterization is his doctor’s orders for “complete rest, an absence of mental excitement, and avoidance of anything in the nature of violent physical exercise” (Paragraph 20). All else must be inferred from his diction and syntax, the tone of which seems jumpy, nervous, and easily spooked.

From the outset, Framton is affected by social anxiety made worse by the need to observe Edwardian etiquette. Formal visits, though normal in the Edwardian period featured in Saki’s writing, are easily satirized—the prospect of calling on a series of strangers and performing a prearranged routine seems absurd. Framton’s sister insists he make these visits to avoid going without speaking to anyone, which she believes would make his nerves “worse than ever from moping” (Paragraph 2) rather than “helping the nerve cure which he was supposed to be undergoing” (Paragraph 3). While he hopes to ease his nerves in the countryside, proper etiquette follows him and ultimately leads to his continued torment.