Functional Order: Fi/Ne/Si/Te
Dominant Function: Fi
Matthew prefers to make decisions based on his own belief system rather than surrendering to another’s influence. He must be made to understand another compassionate point of view before he can use it (Matthew’s fiercely independent nature resists authority, but eventually as he sees how his lifestyle provides employment for others, he allows Mosley to fulfill his duties and preserve his self-worth). Matthew doesn’t like to hurt other people’s feelings but he also believes in expressing his opinions. He chooses his battles carefully, but then stands by them.
Auxilliary Function: Ne
He is open-minded enough to accept the world as it changes around him, but also to sense when things are “wrong” with it. He takes a strong dislike to Mary’s newspaper editor suitor without any ulterior motive, and his assumptions about him are correct. Matthew has a strong desire to improve things and to change how Downton is run. He holds onto his belief that Mary can be a better person, an idealistic view that strives him to continue showing her kindness even when she has broken his heart.
Tertiary Function: Si
Tradition is something Matthew must be taught, but facts and common sense keep him grounded. Matthew knows how things have always been and sometimes struggles to separate himself from past events. He finds it impossible not only to forgive his biggest mistakes but also to walk away from them. Matthew holds onto and nurses his love for Mary over a significant period of time.
Inferior Function: Te
His inferior Te, however, shows in the instances where he stands on his principles, where a more rational method would be to find common ground (ignoring Molesley’s need to be useful at first, fighting with Robert over how to run the place “efficiently,” and refusing to bail out Downton Abbey due to his guilt over Lavinia’s death, until he learns her father wanted him to have the money anyway).
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