Steppenwolf: Analysis of Major Characters
"Steppenwolf" is a novel that delves into the complex inner life of Harry Haller, a man caught between his human side and his animalistic instincts, symbolized by his identity as a "steppenwolf." At fifty, Haller embarks on a turbulent journey through a life filled with alcohol, sexual exploration, and drug use, which allows him to confront the multifaceted aspects of himself. Key characters in his life include Hermine, a woman who becomes integral to Haller's emotional awakening; she guides him towards self-discovery, ultimately instigating a tragic love that leads to her demise. Maria, another figure introduced by Hermine, serves as Haller's mistress and an experienced lover, further complicating his relationships. Pablo, a saxophonist and dope peddler, introduces Haller to a more vibrant, yet chaotic lifestyle, influencing his perception of reality and self-identity. The interplay among these characters highlights themes of love, duality, and the search for meaning in a fragmented existence. As Haller navigates his relationships, he grapples with his own inner demons, making "Steppenwolf" a poignant exploration of the human condition and the struggle for self-acceptance.
Steppenwolf: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Hermann Hesse
First published: Der Steppenwolf (1927; English translation, 1929)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Germany
Plot: Psychological
Time: The 1920's
Harry Haller, a steppenwolf, part man and part wolf. He has a strange period in his life, when he is fifty years old, in which he haunts taverns and picks up unusual friends, both men and women. Previously a quiet man with suppressed emotions, he finds a new addiction to alcohol, sexual eroticism, and narcotics that helps him to see his many selves for the first time, as exemplified in Pablo's hall of mirrors. There, he encounters Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, stabs Hermine, and is sentenced by the court to eternal life.
Erica, Harry Haller's wife, a madwoman. Her husband lives away from her and visits her only every few months.
Hermine, a woman Haller meets at a tavern. She helps him so that he will come to love her enough to kill her. She finds Haller a mistress, encourages his love life, and at last brings him to love her.
Maria, a woman introduced to Haller by Hermine. She is an expert in love and becomes Haller's mistress. She has been Hermine's lover as well.
Pablo, a saxophonist who prefers Mozart's music to jazz. He is a fine musician as well as a dope peddler. He becomes Haller's friend and introduces Haller to some strange sides of life. In his hall of mirrors, Pablo becomes Hermine's lover. When the jealous Haller finds them together, he stabs Hermine under the breast.