Final answer:
The character is Jane Withersteen, who is depicted as strong-minded, willful, and very protective of her younger sister, Fay, in the text excerpts. Jane's fierce protective instincts and her struggle with deep passions and societal pressure highlight her complexities as a character.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character described as strong-minded, willful, and very protective of her younger sister Ruth is Jane Withersteen from the provided text excerpts. Jane's characteristics are revealed through her intense emotions, her capacity for deep anger, and her commitment to her beliefs, even when they conflict with those of authority figures. Despite her personal struggles and the societal pressures she faces, Jane's protective nature towards her loved ones, especially the shy and lonely Fay, is evident.
In the passage, Jane is depicted as having a profound sense of responsibility and protective instincts towards those she cares for, like her younger sister Fay. Her strength of character is also portrayed through her ability to hold onto her principles against overwhelming opposition, encapsulated in the quote where she faces her spiritual challenges with determination. At the same time, Jane demonstrates a willful nature, as seen when she refuses to compromise her values, even against the harsh edicts of her church leaders.