Temptation: Analysis of Major Characters
"Temptation: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the complex dynamics among characters within a narrative that intertwines themes of ambition, betrayal, and moral conflict. At the center is Dr. Henry Foustka, a scientist whose secret explorations of the occult raise questions about the boundaries between science and morality. His interactions with Fistula, a sinister figure reminiscent of Mephistopheles, reveal Foustka's inner turmoil and lead to his eventual downfall. The Director of the Institute embodies duplicity, offering a façade of concern while manipulating those around him, including Foustka, whom he seeks to undermine. Supporting characters, such as Vilma, Foustka's lover, and the Deputy Director, illustrate the entangled relationships and moral ambiguities present within the Institute. Meanwhile, Maggie, a devoted secretary, falls victim to her idealized view of Foustka, ultimately leading to her tragic descent into madness. Each character contributes to a narrative rich in psychological complexity, exploring how personal desires and professional loyalties intersect in a morally fraught environment. This exploration of human behavior and ethical dilemmas invites readers to reflect on the nature of temptation and the consequences of one's choices.
Temptation: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Vaclav Havel
First published: Pokouseni, 1986 (English translation, 1988)
Genre: Play
Locale: Soviet Europe
Plot: Social criticism
Time: The 1980's
Dr. Henry Foustka, a scientist employed by the scientific research facility called the Institute. He is secretly exploring the occult, burning candles and reciting incantations alone in his study. Foustka, a Faust figure exploring the possibility that science itself is the worship of the devil, reluctantly employs the services of Fistula, which are essentially the argument by which Foustka realizes his own beliefs. He is damned by Fistula's accusations and disappears in clouds of smoke.
Fistula, an invalid in retirement, sinister and philosophical, who is prone to visiting Foustka unannounced. The Mephistopheles character, he second-guesses Foustka, causing him to make admissions that he does not actually believe, then betrays him to the Director, for whom he has been acting as agent provocateur.
The Director, the head of the Institute, who is in constant need of support staff and yes men. He is strangely attracted to Foustka until his offer of intimate friendship is rebuffed. Both in his position as the head of the Institute and in his duplicity toward Foustka, he is the embodiment of evil, despite his superficial concern for others and his quiet, self-deprecating attitude.
Vilma, a scientist, Foustka's lover, addicted to elaborately staged role-playing scenarios in her love life and accused by Foustka of being responsible for his exposure to the Director. She loses her respect for Foustka when he lies his way out of trouble. Eventually, she acts out what Foustka has always believed to be one of her fantasies, taking up with a dancer who brings her violets every night.
The Deputy Director, an oily and hypocritical man. On the surface, he is the spokesman for the Director, who actually despises him. The Deputy Director acts as facilitator for the Institute. He is always seen with a silent girl, Petruska, who holds his hand at all times, except when she sneaks off to be unfaithful to him with other scientists.
Maggie, a secretary, young and attractive, completely taken in by Foustka's rhetoric. She falls in love with him, believing him to be a clearheaded defender of the world against the devil. She willingly sacrifices herself in his defense when he is condemned by the Director. She goes mad when the Director takes away her job for supporting Foustka.
Lorencova, Kotrly, and Neuwirth, the staff scientists for the Institute's work, romantically involved in various combinations. They act as the jury during Foustka's “trial” and attend two parties hosted by the Institute.
Mrs. Houbova, Foustka's elderly landlady. Representing the naïve but unpretentious real world, she is sane and protective of Foustka, with natural instincts of repulsion toward Fistula.