Liliom: A Legend in Seven Scenes: Analysis of Major Characters
"Liliom: A Legend in Seven Scenes" is a poignant play that explores complex themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption through the lives of its characters, set against the backdrop of a merry-go-round in Budapest. The story centers on Liliom, a charismatic yet troubled barker, who is ultimately driven by his flawed ambitions, leading to his tragic downfall after attempting to rob a factory paymaster. Key characters include Julie, Liliom’s devoted wife, who idolizes him despite his failings, and their daughter Louise, who has been raised to view her father as a hero, even after his death. Julie's friend, Marie, and her husband Wolf, as well as Mrs. Muskat, the merry-go-round owner, add layers to the narrative, showcasing the varied relationships and social dynamics at play.
The character of Ficsur serves as a catalyst for Liliom's criminal aspirations, while the factory paymaster Linzman represents the systemic forces Liliom seeks to defy. After his death, Liliom's spirit undergoes a transformative journey, revealing the impact of his choices on his family and the idealization they hold of him. The presence of the policemen, who transition from earthly enforcers to heavenly figures, underscores the theme of judgment and redemption in the afterlife. Overall, the play offers a rich exploration of human emotions and relationships, inviting audiences to reflect on the ideals and realities of love and legacy.
Liliom: A Legend in Seven Scenes: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Ferenc Molnár
First published: 1909 (English translation, 1921)
Genre: Play
Locale: Budapest
Plot: Fantasy
Time: Early twentieth century
Mrs. Muskat, the owner of a merry-go-round in Budapest.
Liliom, her successful barker, discharged for flirting with Julie, whom he eventually marries. He refuses to go back to Mrs. Muskat because he has plans to rob a factory paymaster. When caught, he stabs himself and dies. In a vision, after sixteen years of purification by fire, he returns to Earth to find himself idealized by his wife and his daughter.
Julie, a country girl who marries Liliom.
Louise, their daughter. She has been taught by Julie to idolize her father. When he returns from death for a day after sixteen years and strikes Louise in irritation, she says the blow felt tender, like a caress.
Marie, Julie's friend, who is lured by Wolf's uniform and marries him.
Wolf, a porter.
Mrs. Hollunder, Julie's aunt, who runs a photograph gallery.
Ficsur, who encourages Liliom to steal a knife from the Hollunder kitchen and hold up the cashier.
Linzman, the factory paymaster whom Liliom plans to rob. Having already paid off the workers, he has no money when Liliom accosts him.
Two policemen, who carry the dying Liliom to the photographer's shop and later figure as heavenly police in his vision.