Who is E. M. Ashford, D.Phil. in the play, Wit?

Evelyn Ashford, now 80, is in town for her great-grandchild’s birthday- contrasting with Vivian, who has no family. Ashford first introduced Vivian to Donne. She was also the first to perceive Vivian shied away from people and preferred to keep to her studies. As a teacher, she encouraged Vivian to get out and enjoy life with others. Now at the end of Vivian’s life, she is quiet and gentle and loving.