Rudolf
Elphberg
Introduction
Rudolf Elphberg is one of the central
character of the novel entitled The Prisoner of Zenda created by Anthony Hope.
He is the prisoner in the castle of Zenda. He is son of late king of Ruritania
and heir to throne.
Appearance
Appearance
Rudolf Elphberg is a young, tall and
handsome man. He is an educated man. He has red hair, straight nose, blue eyes
and a beard. His physical appearance bears striking resemblance to that of
Rudolf Rassendyll, though there were some points of differences, which are
pointed by Rudolf Rassendyll:
“The king’s face was slightly more fleshy than mine, the oval of its
contour the least trifle more pronounced and his mouth lacking something of the
firmness which was to be gathered from my close-shutting lips.”
However, in spite of these
differences, Colonel Sapt could not help mentioning to Rassendyll:
“You’re an Elphberg, every inch of you.”
Lack of
Responsibility and Common Sense
Rudolf Elphberg, the king is a
happy-go-lucky type of young man. He is a pleasure loving man and wishes to
pass a happy and care free life. He is devoid of a sense of responsibility and
lacks even common sense. He is indiscreet and trusts even his half brother,
Black Michael. He does not care even the coronation and drinks excessively. He
also drinks the wine sent by his wicked brother. He does not even think or
suspect about it. It is well known to the people of Ruritania that Black
Michael intends to get through the access to the throne and wants to marry
Flavia, but Elphberg is not aware of this fact.
A Weak Man
He has not the quality to face the
dangers and odds boldly. His behaviour in prison throws a shadow upon his
person. He becomes completely demoralized and losses all gril. His health
suffers and he becomes partially insane. He requests Detchard to persuade his
brother, Black Michael to kill him. He becomes hopeless and sobs on his fate.
Not a Bad Man
Rudolf Elphberg cannot, however, be
called a bad man. He may be a weak king, but as a man, he has some very good
qualities. He is a pleasant tempered man, a sincere and good friend. He stands
by his friends and has a great trust and faith in them. There is in him a peculiar
charm of personality, which inspires confidence in the heart of those who come
into contact with him. He loves and admires Flavia. He is sincere, kind and
open-hearted.
Conclusion
Although he remains captive
throughout the novel and we cannot see him in action, but the whole story
revolves round him. He attracts our attention in the forest as a charming and
gay person. He reigns in the readers mind although remains behind the scene.
0 comments :
Post a Comment