Septimus meaning

The meaning of Septimus is the plight of a World War I veteran struggling with psychological trauma in Virginia Woolf's novel "Mrs. Dalloway."


Septimus definitions

Word backwards sumitpeS
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division Sep-ti-mus
Plural The plural of the word "Septimus" is "Septimuses."
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) e,i,u
Consonants (5) s,p,t,m

Septimus is a fictional character featured in Virginia Woolf's novel "Mrs. Dalloway." He is a World War I veteran who suffers from severe mental health issues, including shell shock (now known as PTSD). Septimus serves as a contrast to the novel's protagonist, Clarissa Dalloway, as he struggles with the traumatic experiences of war while she navigates the complexities of high society in post-World War I London.

Character Analysis

Septimus is a complex character who is deeply affected by his experiences in the war. He displays symptoms of PTSD, such as hallucinations, delusions, and suicidal thoughts. These symptoms often alienate him from those around him, including his wife, Lucrezia, and his doctors, who struggle to understand his condition.

Relationship with Clarissa Dalloway

Septimus' story runs parallel to Clarissa Dalloway's throughout the novel. While Clarissa is preparing for a party, Septimus is dealing with the aftermath of the war and the death of his friend Evans. Their paths briefly cross towards the end of the novel, highlighting the stark differences in their lives and experiences.

Symbolism and Themes

Septimus represents the lost generation of World War I veterans who struggled to reintegrate into society after the war. His story reflects themes of trauma, mental illness, and the effects of war on individuals and society as a whole. Woolf uses Septimus to explore the impact of war on the human psyche and the ways in which trauma can shape a person's identity.

In conclusion, Septimus is a poignant and tragic character in "Mrs. Dalloway" who serves as a reminder of the lingering effects of war on individuals long after the fighting has ended. His story sheds light on the complexities of mental health and the struggles faced by those who have experienced trauma, making him a compelling and deeply human character in Woolf's novel.


Septimus Examples

  1. Septimus enjoyed reading books in the library.
  2. The protagonist in the novel was named Septimus.
  3. Septimus was known for his great knowledge of ancient history.
  4. The mysterious man introduced himself as Septimus.
  5. The wizard cast a spell that only Septimus could break.
  6. Septimus always carried a pocket watch with him.
  7. The town celebrated Septimus' birthday with a grand parade.
  8. Septimus was a skilled painter, capturing landscapes with precision.
  9. The treasure map led the explorers to Septimus' hidden tomb.
  10. Legend had it that Septimus possessed magical powers.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 02/05/2024 - 16:36:29