Elective Affinities: Analysis of Major Characters
"Elective Affinities" is a novel that explores complex human relationships and the forces of attraction through its major characters, each representing different facets of love and desire. Edward, a wealthy nobleman, enjoys a seemingly idyllic life with his wife, Charlotte, until the arrival of Ottilie, a young protégée who becomes the object of Edward's unrestrained passion. Charlotte, a mature and morally grounded woman, finds her own affections stirred by Edward's friend, the Captain, leading her to navigate the complexities of loyalty and desire while adhering to her moral principles. Meanwhile, Ottilie’s tragic journey, marked by her unfulfilled love for Edward and her eventual self-imposed starvation, highlights the destructive potential of desire when left unchecked. The Captain, serving as a foil to Edward, maintains control over his emotions and ultimately finds a path to happiness with Charlotte after Edward's demise. Other characters, such as their infant son Otto and the well-intentioned but ineffective marriage counselor Herr Mittler, contribute to the exploration of familial and romantic dynamics. This intricate web of relationships raises questions about the nature of love, fidelity, and the consequences of human choices.
Elective Affinities: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
First published: Die Wahlverwandtschaften, 1809 (English translation, 1872)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Germany
Plot: Love
Time: Eighteenth century
Edward (EHD-vahrd), a wealthy nobleman. He lives an idyllic life on his estate with his wife, Charlotte, until the arrival of Ottilie, for whom he develops a passion which, in his immaturity, he does little to control. He and Ottilie are finally unitedindeath.
Charlotte (shahr-LOHT-teh), Edward's wife. She lives happily with her husband until his friend, the Captain, comes to live with them, and she and the Captain fall in love. A mature person, she controls her passion and resolves to adhere to the moral code. She is united with the Captain after Edward's death.
Ottilie (oh-TEE-lee-eh), Charlotte's young protégée, who comes to live on Edward's estate. She develops for her host a passion that he encourages. Finally, in despair over her situation, she dies of self-imposed starvation. She is soon followed by Edward, and the lovers are united in death.
The Captain, Edward's friend. Living on Edward's estate, he and Charlotte fall in love. Controlling his emotions, he plays an honorable role and is finally united with Charlotte after Edward's death.
Otto, the infant son of Edward and Charlotte.
Herr Mittler, a self-appointed marriage counselor who tries and fails to bring about a reconciliation between Edward and Charlotte.
Luciana (lew-chee-AH-nah), Charlotte's daughter by a former marriage.
Nanny, Ottilie's young friend.