Rudolf Elphberg - Character of The Novel (The Prisoner of Zenda)
Question 06)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
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 behavior in prison throws a shadow
upon his personality. He becomes completely demoralized and losses all grip.
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.
A GOOD 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 meet him. He loves and admires Flavia. He is sincere, kind and
openhearted.
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.