Dame Care: Analysis of Major Characters
"Dame Care: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate relationships and struggles of the Meyerhofer family, highlighting themes of poverty, violence, and resilience. Central to the narrative is Max Meyerhofer, a brutal patriarch whose grandiose schemes lead to the loss of his family estate and eventual downfall. His long-suffering wife, Frau Elsbeth, endures a broken spirit, culminating in her painful death. Their son, Paul, who grows up amidst hardship, ultimately takes control of his father's violent legacy after a pivotal confrontation. He works diligently to rise above his circumstances but faces significant challenges, including a devastating injury and a prison sentence. Supporting characters such as Mr. Douglas, the new estate owner, and his compassionate family play crucial roles in Paul's journey, providing friendship and support. Additionally, Paul’s twin sisters, Katie and Greta, become symbols of the family's honor as Paul confronts their dishonor. The story weaves a complex tapestry of human emotion, illustrating the struggles against despair and the pursuit of dignity amid adversity.
Dame Care: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Hermann Sudermann
First published: Frau Sorge, 1887 (English translation, 1891)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Germany
Plot: Domestic realism
Time: Nineteenth century
Max Meyerhofer (MI-ehr-hoh-fehr), a violent and brutal man given to grandiose but unsuccessful schemes for making money. He loses the family estate and sinks constantly deeper into poverty. He dies of a stroke as he is about to burn Mr. Douglas' barn.
Frau Elsbeth Meyerhofer, his long-suffering wife; after years of patience, her spirit is broken, and she dies a lingering death.
Paul Meyerhofer, their third son, born at the time the estate is lost; he is reared in poverty. His father ridicules him, but his mother is loving. After his father attacks a servant wildly, Paul overpowers him and from that day takes over. By hard work, he becomes a man of substance. Suspecting his father's intention to burn Mr. Douglas' barn, he attempts to distract him by setting fire to his own house and barn. Seriously burned, Paul recovers and spends two years in prison. Having lost everything, he feels free from his nemesis, Dame Care.
Mr. Douglas, the new owner of the Meyerhofer estate. Sympathy for Paul causes him to agree to join in one of Max's schemes. Max becomes violent when Douglas objects to having his name used in borrowing money—but Douglas remains steadfast in his friendship to Paul.
Mrs. Douglas, his wife, a kindhearted woman, fond of Frau Elsbeth. She acts as godmother to Paul.
Elsbeth Douglas, their daughter. Engaged to marry her cousin, she loves Paul. After he is burned, she stays by his bed, and her wedding is called off. When he is released from prison, Elsbeth and the family estate are to be his.
Katie and Greta, Paul's younger twin sisters. Learning that they have been dishonored by his old tormentors the Erdmann boys, Paul forces the Erdmanns at pistol point to swear they will marry the sisters.
Levy (LAY-vee), a sharp trader who dupes Max in a money-making scheme.
Michel (MEE-khehl), a servant. Attacked by Max, he gets revenge by burning the Meyerhofer barn.