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Inferno: Analysis of Major Characters

"Inferno: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the complexities of the characters that populate a narrative steeped in themes of suffering, knowledge, and existential anguish. Central to the story is the narrator, who embodies the author's alter ego—a man compelled to forsake family for the pursuit of scientific enlightenment. His relentless experiments in chemistry and alchemy lead him to a harrowing state of physical and mental deterioration, marking his journey through a metaphorical hell filled with decay and despair.

The narrator experiences profound torment from both earthly and supernatural adversaries, reflecting a struggle with deep-seated fears and the chaotic world around him. His daughter, Christine, serves as a beacon of hope, guiding him towards a more profound understanding of love despite the darkness enveloping him. Additionally, the character of Popoffsky, a former ally turned enemy, represents the betrayal and hostility that haunt the narrator. Together, these characters illustrate themes of obsession, isolation, and the quest for redemption, inviting readers to grapple with the implications of human suffering and the search for higher truths.

Published in: 2021
By: Monsma, Fritz
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Inferno: Analysis of Major Characters

Author: August Strindberg

First published: 1897 (English translation, 1912)

Genre: Novel

Locale: Paris, France; Germany; and Sweden

Plot: Expressionism

Time: 1894–1897

The narrator, the author's alter ego, who leaves his wife and child to pursue knowledge of chemistry and alchemy. His scientific experiments leave him incapacitated, his hands bleeding. He enters a hospital, where he is surrounded by decay, disease, and death. A brilliant and high-principled man, he is tormented in his soul and body by a number of hidden and diabolical assailants. He sees himself attacked by worldly enemies and, increasingly, otherworldly ones, demons and satanic forces. His soul writhes in fear of shadowy assailants, planning unknown mischief against him. He is disgusted by the stenches, horrid noises, and rude, base people that beset him, and he is in torment as electrical emanations, foul air, and other poisons destroy his health and worry his sanity. He offers this narrative as an account of his trip through nothing less than a literal hell. Throughout the novel, there is no shred of irony, no hint of self-conception, not even the thought that others may find his torments ridiculous. He is utterly self-absorbed. He travels from one location to another to escape his torments, finally settling in Sweden, where he embraces Roman Catholicism and mysticism.

Christine, the narrator's daughter, on whom he attempts to cast a spell. He later visits her, finding temporary consolation. She directs him on the path to a higher love.

Popoffsky, a former compatriot of the narrator who now wants to murder him. He is one of the narrator's many tormentors.