Physical Appearance:
* Deformed and Awkward: Dickens emphasizes Sleary's physical deformity, stating he "had a habit of shutting one eye, and looking out of the other, with an inquiring and whimsical stare." This physical characteristic contributes to his eccentric persona and makes him appear slightly comical.
* Dignified and Respectful: Despite his physical appearance, Sleary carries himself with a certain dignity, treating his performers and others with respect.
Personality:
* Kind-Hearted and Compassionate: Beneath his jovial and seemingly lighthearted exterior, Sleary is deeply compassionate, particularly towards his circus performers. He shows great care for their well-being and protects them from exploitation.
* Philosophical and Wise: Dickens uses Sleary as a voice for wisdom and philosophy, often offering insightful observations about life and human nature. His famous quote, "People mutht be amutht," reflects his belief in the importance of joy and lightheartedness, even in the face of hardship.
* Reserved and Introspective: While seemingly jovial and outgoing, Sleary is also a deeply introspective character. He carries a sense of melancholy and exhibits a level of quiet contemplation.
* A Moral Compass: Sleary, despite his profession, acts as a moral compass within the narrative. He stands up for what he believes in and offers guidance and support to those around him.
Contrasting Traits:
* Jovial and Melancholy: Sleary's cheerful demeanor contrasts with a deeply rooted sense of sadness. This dichotomy adds a layer of complexity to his character and makes him more relatable.
* Crude and Sophisticated: While he speaks in a somewhat crude and colloquial language, he also exhibits a surprising sophistication in his understanding of human nature and the complexities of life.
Significance:
* A Symbol of Resilience: Mr. Sleary embodies resilience and the ability to find joy and purpose despite challenges. His unwavering commitment to his performers and the circus despite societal judgment illustrates this point.
* A Critique of Social Hypocrisy: Dickens uses Sleary and the circus to critique the hypocritical nature of Victorian society. The circus is often seen as a symbol of low culture, but Sleary's humanity and the performers' genuine talents expose the narrow-mindedness of those who judge them.
Overall, Mr. Sleary is a nuanced and engaging character that defies easy categorization. Dickens expertly portrays him as a complex individual with a surprising depth of character, offering a poignant commentary on social hypocrisy and the importance of kindness and resilience.