Thomas McNulty

Thomas McNulty is the narrator and main character of the novel. Originally from Sligo, Ireland, Thomas’s childhood is marred by famine, disease, and destitution. He is born into a poor farmer family and becomes an orphan at the age of 13 when his parents and sister die of famine. Thomas quickly learns to be self-reliant and resourceful and emigrates to America in search of a better life. He becomes ashamed of his roots when the locals treat Irish settlers like they are less than human. Soon after arriving to Missouri, he finds solace in his new friend, John Cole. They develop an intimate relationship and fall in love, which they keep private. Thomas discovers his joy for crossdressing when they are hired to perform as women in a saloon. Even after puberty, Thomas’s somewhat feminine physique allows him to continue his performances as a woman when...