Minna von Barnhelm: Or, The Soldier's Fortune: Analysis of Major Characters
"Minna von Barnhelm: Or, The Soldier's Fortune" is a comedy that revolves around themes of love, pride, and social status in post-war Prussia. The main characters include Minna, a young heiress who demonstrates determination and resourcefulness as she seeks to reunite with her betrothed, Major Tellheim. Despite her charm and beauty, she faces challenges as she navigates misunderstandings and financial hardships stemming from Tellheim's recent misfortunes. Tellheim, a brave soldier, grapples with his wounded pride and a desire to restore his honor, leading him to reject offers of charity, even from those close to him.
Supporting characters such as Just, the humorous servant, and Franziska, Minna's savvy maid, add depth to the narrative, often providing comic relief while also advancing the plot through their own romantic endeavors. Sergeant Paul Werner stands out for his loyalty to Tellheim, demonstrating the theme of camaraderie amidst adversity. Conversely, Lieutenant Riccault de la Marlinière embodies the darker side of human nature as a mercenary who exploits Minna’s goodwill. The landlord and Count von Bruchsal serve as figures representing societal constraints, impacting the fates of the primary characters. The interplay between these characters ultimately leads to reconciliation and the restoration of fortunes, highlighting the complexities of love and honor in a changing social landscape.
Minna von Barnhelm: Or, The Soldier's Fortune: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
First published: Minna von Barnhelm: Oder, Das Soldatenglück, 1767
Genre: Play
Locale: Germany
Plot: Comedy
Time: Eighteenth century
Minna von Barnhelm (MIH-nah fon BAHRN-hehlm), a charming and beautiful young heiress betrothed to a former Prussian officer, Major Tellheim. Hearing no word from him after the peace, she sets out resolutely with her maid Franziska to find the major. Stopping at an inn, the two women are given the quarters of Tellheim, whom the landlord has dispossessed for nonpayment of rent. Minna learns of Tellheim's misfortune and, so that his pride will not stand in their way, she pretends to have lost her own fortune too. After many misunderstandings, word is received that Tellheim's commission and property have been restored. The lovers are soon reconciled.
Major von Tellheim (TEHL-him), a gallant and brave soldier recently discharged from the army, wounded and under shadow of suspicion for double dealing. As much as he loves Minna, he has purposely broken off communications with her to clear his good name, restore his health, and regain his fortune. Never one to accept charity, he rejects the repayment of a loan by the widow of a comrade-in-arms, the offer of financial help from his old sergeant, and the sympathy as well as the fortune of his fiancée. On the other hand, his own generosity, in advancing war taxes for a destitute principality and borrowing large funds for what he was led to believe is a destitute Minna, is forthright and sincere. Eventually, his name is cleared and his property restored. He and Minna then plan their wedding.
Just (yewst), the major's humorous, loyal servant. He defends his master against insults from the landlord and does all he can to ease the major's financial difficulties.
Franziska (fran-TSIHS-kah), Minna's resourceful maid and confidante. She joins her mistress in the intrigue designed to mollify the major's pride. In the process, she finds a husband for herself.
Sergeant Paul Werner (VEHR-nehr), Tellheim's loyal sergeant. He places all of his resources at the disposal of the major, even offering to raise money by selling his farm. When the major's problems finally are resolved, Werner becomes engaged to Franziska.
Lieutenant Riccault de la Marlinière (rih-KOHL duh lah mahr-lee-NYEHR), a mercenary and a gambler. Welcomed because he brings the news that Major Tellheim's good name and commission will soon be restored, he proves to be a scoundrel who manages to gain sympathy and money from Minna for his illicit gambling enterprises.
The landlord, a greedy, prying innkeeper. He dispossesses Tellheim and rents his room to Minna when the major falls behind in his rent.
Count von Bruchsal (BREWKH-zahl), Minna's uncle, who controls her wealth. He arrives in time to give the reconciled lovers his blessing.