Character: The Portrait of a Lady

Introduction:
The important character in the chapter "The Portrait of a Lady" from the book Hornbill is the narrator who is an unnamed young boy. He describes his experiences of visiting the house of a family friend, Mrs. Bouncer, and encountering her mysterious Aunt, who is the subject of the portrait.

Description of the character:
The narrator is a curious and observant young boy who is intrigued by the portrait of the Aunt in the house. He is fascinated by the mysterious aura surrounding the Aunt and is determined to unravel the secrets behind her enigmatic smile.

Role in the chapter:
The narrator serves as the protagonist of the story, driving the plot forward with his curiosity and desire to uncover the truth about the Aunt. His interactions with Mrs. Bouncer and his vivid imagination add depth to the narrative, making the chapter engaging and compelling for the readers.

Character development:
Through the narrator's perspective, readers are able to explore themes of mystery, curiosity, and perception. The character undergoes a transformation as he delves deeper into the secrets of the Aunt, ultimately leading to a surprising revelation that challenges his perception of beauty and art.

Conclusion:
The narrator in "The Portrait of a Lady" is a crucial character whose inquisitive nature drives the story forward and enables readers to explore themes of mystery and perception. His journey of discovery adds depth and intrigue to the chapter, making it a memorable and captivating read.