The Weavers: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Weavers" presents a gripping exploration of class struggle through its diverse cast of characters, each representing different perspectives on labor, oppression, and resistance. Central to the narrative is Herr Dreissiger, a factory owner who, despite viewing himself as well-intentioned, exploits his weavers for profit. His manager, Herr Pfeifer, enforces harsh standards to minimize expenses, siding with Dreissiger against the aggrieved workers. Conversely, characters like Moritz Jaeger and Becker emerge as leaders of the weavers, galvanizing their fellow laborers to revolt against their dire conditions.
The story also delves into the personal sacrifices made by the weavers, illustrated by Old Baumert, who sacrifices his pet to feed his family, and Old Hilse, who remains steadfast at his loom despite the risks. Family dynamics play a significant role, as seen in the Hilse family, where Gottlieb is persuaded by his wife Luise to join the rebellion. The narrative highlights the harsh realities faced by working-class families, contrasting their plight with the indifference of figures like Pastor Kittelhaus and the local innkeeper, Herr Welzel. Ultimately, "The Weavers" uses its characters to shed light on the complexities of social justice and human resilience amidst adversity.
The Weavers: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Gerhart Hauptmann
First published: 1892
Genre: Drama
Locale: Germany
Plot: Social criticism
Time: The 1840's
Herr Dreissiger (DRI-sih-gehr), a manufacturer who works his weavers for all he can, paying them as little as he can, though he does not think he is a bad man. When the weavers riot, he tries to stand up to them but is forced to flee with his family.
Herr Pfeifer (PFI-fur), Herr Dreissiger's manager, who judges the weavers' work harshly, so that less money must be paid for it. He sides with his master against the weavers.
Moritz Jaeger (MOH-rihts YAY-gehr), a husky young returned soldier. Appalled at the weavers'misery, he leads them to riot. He terms Herr Dreissiger an oppressive villain.
Becker, an impudent young giant of a man who is one of the weavers. He becomes a leader in the riots. After he is captured, his fellow weavers free him from the hands of the police.
Old Baumert (BOW-mehrt), an elderly weaver who kills his pet dog so that his family can have meat.
Old Hilse (HIHL-zeh), an elderly weaver who believes the weavers are wrong to riot. He stays at his loom, only to be killed by a stray bullet.
Gottlieb Hilse (GOT-leeb), Old Hilse's son. His wife shames him into joining the rioters.
Luise Hilse (lew-EE-zeh), Gottlieb's wife. She braves the bayonets of the soldiers.
Mielchen Hilse (MEEL-khehn), Gottlieb and Luise's small daughter.
Emma Baumert and Bertha Baumert, Old Baumert's two daughters, who wear themselves out at the looms.
William Ansorge (AHN-zohr-geh), the owner of the house in which the Baumerts live.
Pastor Kittelhaus (KIH-tehl-howz), a minister who has no sympathy for the rioting workers.
Herr Welzel (VEHL-tsehl), the keeper of the inn where the leaders of the weavers meet.
Anna Welzel, Herr Welzel's merry, red-haired daughter.
Weinhold (VIN-hohlt), the tutor in Herr Dreissiger's house. He sympathizes with the weavers.
Wiegand (WEE-gahnt), a joiner and coffin maker.