The Gorgeous Hussy (1936) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story is set in 1820s Washington, D.C., centered around an inn that serves as a social hub for politicians and power brokers. The city’s political life and social rituals frame Peggy’s ambitions, romances, and public image.

• washington dc
• inn
• political hub
• 1820s

The events span the early to late 1820s in Washington, D.C., beginning in 1823 when Peggy runs the inn and continues through 1828 when Andrew Jackson rises to the presidency and Peggy’s standing is tested.

• 1820s
• 1823
• 1828
• jackson presidency
• early 19th century

The film explores three interconnected themes: romance, as Peggy navigates her heart against political expectations; gossip, showing how Washington society’s whispers shape fortunes and reputation; and power, examining how ambition and political maneuvering drive decisions and relationships.

• romance
• gossip
• power
• themes
• washington society

Margaret 'Peggy' O'Neal is a spirited innkeeper in 1823 Washington, unafraid to speak her mind in a city ruled by men. She secretly loves John Randolph, and her boldness draws both Beau Timberlake and political attention. She later becomes Washington’s official hostess and confidante to Andrew Jackson.

• peggy oneal
• innkeeper
• joan crawford
• hostess

John Randolph is a brilliant Virginia senator with strong views on state rights and governance. He initially misreads Peggy’s advances as youth, then confronts his own heart as their romance develops. Ultimately, political differences threaten their happiness, and he is mortally wounded.

• john randolph
• senator
• virginia
• melvyn douglas

Andrew Jackson is the president who must balance loyalty, politics, and Peggy’s rising influence. He maneuvers through cabinet pressures and public opinion, even lying to protect Peggy’s reputation. His leadership reshapes the cabinet and the course of Peggy’s future in Washington.

• andrew jackson
• president
• lionel barrymore
• cabinet

Beau Timberlake is a dashing naval officer attached to the USS Constitution who becomes Peggy’s fiancé. He departs Washington for a three-month tour, and his subsequent fate is sealed by the dangers of naval service. His romance with Peggy catalyzes later emotional and political tensions.

• beau timberlake
• robert taylor
• naval officer
• uss constitution

Washington society is propelled by rumors and reputation, and Peggy’s position is shaped by the whispers of wives and politicians. Gossip tests her resilience and social acceptance, especially as Rachel Jackson’s circle and the president’s regard come into play. Public perception directly influences her private fortunes.

• gossip
• reputation
• washington society
• rumors
• rachel jackson

Roderick 'Rowdy' Dow is Peggy’s childhood friend who defends her dignity and supports her ambitions. He intervenes when tensions rise between Peggy and Calhoun, and he accompanies Peggy at crucial moments, embodying loyalty amid political turmoil.

• rowdy dow
• james stewart
• childhood friend
• loyalty

John H. Eaton is the Secretary of War who harbors long-standing affection for Peggy. He proposes to her, and their evolving relationship becomes a pivot around which Peggy’s decisions turn. In time, Peggy supports his appointment as an envoy to Spain.

• john eaton
• franchot tone
• secretary of war
• spain

Rachel Jackson is the wife of Andrew Jackson, whose death and memory cast a shadow over Peggy’s rise in Washington. Peggy becomes Jackson’s confidante and hostess, a role that tests her reputation and moral choices as political tensions mount.

• rachel jackson
• beulah bondi
• andrew jackson
• wife

The film depicts early 19th-century Washington during Andrew Jackson's rise to presidency, capturing the political climate of the 1820s. It explores the intersection of personal relationships and political power during a formative period in American political history.

• historical
• jacksonian era
• early american politics
• 1820s