George Ponderevo
George is a rich young man who devotes a large portion of his life to selling a patented medicine that really does nothing. As the protagonist, main character, and narrator of the novel, George tells from the point of view of a rather spoiled and biased Englishman. He believes that the product is a scam, but continues to work with it and sell it because it was developed by his uncle Edward.
Edward plays a large role in George's life, and George spends much of his time making sure that Edward is well. Edward later becomes very successful financially for a time, but his business empire collapses. George plots a trip to Africa to find a radioactive element that will supposedly assist in the financial state of the family, but this adventure turns up unsuccessful.
Beatrice Normandy
Beatrice plays a relatively small role in the novel, but she is the first true love interest of George. When the two first meet, Beatrice is hesitant to pursue relations with him. Her Nannie says that she shouldn't talk to George very often, but they continue to do so anyway. Eventually, they love outgrows itself as George pursues his own career-based pursuits.
Edward Ponderevo
Edward is one of the other main characters of the novel, though the story is not told from his point of view. Edward is always looking for a way to earn extra income, and one of the first ways that he does this is by developing and selling a patented medicine. The novel, published in 1909, was from an era in which medication was often theatrical and promised unrealistic things, which Edward's formula did.
Nevertheless, Edward is manipulative enough to get his nephew George to sell the potion for him. Edward later becomes a financier and achieves immeasurable social status. However, almost as quickly as he had gained it, Edward spirals downward into poverty as his banking empire collapses. Again, Edward manipulates George into traveling to find him rare substances to sell. Edward eventually dies towards the end of the novel due to pneumonia.
Marion Ponderevo
Marion Ponderevo is George's cousin and a pivotal character in "Tono-Bungay." She is portrayed as an intelligent and strong-willed woman who becomes disillusioned with George's involvement in the Tono-Bungay business. Marion's character represents a contrast to the materialism and superficiality of the society in which they live. Her skepticism and her desire for authenticity and moral integrity serve as a foil to George's ambition and the moral compromises he makes in pursuit of success. Marion's character adds depth to the novel's exploration of societal values and personal relationships.
Aunt Susan Ponderevo
Aunt Susan Ponderevo is Marion's mother and George's aunt in "Tono-Bungay." Initially supportive of George and Edward's business venture, she becomes increasingly critical as the consequences of their actions become evident. Her character represents the older generation's skepticism about the new commercial and moral landscape of the time, adding a layer of generational conflict and social commentary to the novel.
Sir Peter Foliot
Sir Peter Foliot is a prominent figure in society in "Tono-Bungay." He plays a significant role by endorsing Tono-Bungay, which helps boost its popularity and credibility. As a respected figure, his association with the product is instrumental in the marketing scheme devised by George and Edward. Sir Peter Foliot's character illustrates the influence of social connections and prestige in shaping public perception and driving consumerism.
Mr. Grubb
Mr. Grubb is a friend and collaborator of George and Edward Ponderevo in "Tono-Bungay." He is involved in the early experiments and development of Tono-Bungay, contributing to its creation. While his character is not extensively explored in the novel, Mr. Grubb represents a supporting figure who plays a role in the scientific and entrepreneurial aspects of the story.
Teddy Ponderevo
Teddy Ponderevo is George's younger brother in "Tono-Bungay." He serves as a contrast to George's ambition and moral dilemmas, being depicted as more innocent and carefree. Teddy's character highlights the generation gap and the differing priorities of youth and adulthood in the novel. While not a central character, Teddy adds depth to the family dynamics and the portrayal of societal values in the story.
