Father Ralph de Bricassart is a fictional character from the novel "The Thorn Birds" by Colleen McCullough. He is a Catholic priest who struggles with his faith and personal desires, particularly his love for Meggie Cleary, the novel's central character. His journey reflects the conflict between religious duty and personal passion. Set in the Australian outback, Father Ralph's character embodies the complexities of love, ambition, and sacrifice. Throughout the story, he rises in the church hierarchy, facing moral dilemmas that challenge his beliefs and relationships. His character is pivotal in exploring themes of longing and the consequences of choices.