Immensee characters

Appears from the start

An elderly scholar who lives alone among his books and preserves vivid memories of Elisabeth, the companion of his childhood and youth. The story moves from his solitary present into the past that still governs his inner life.

First appears in chapter 2

Reinhard's childhood companion, with whom he shares games, stories, and an instinctive affection. She listens to the verses he composes and remains the central figure in the future he imagines for himself.

First appears in chapter 2

Elisabeth's mother, who welcomes Reinhard in the children's early years and later manages the practical family decisions made while he is away studying.

First appears in chapter 4

A young traveling musician whom Reinhard encounters during his student years. Her performance and frank manner belong to the unfamiliar adult world he enters away from home, far removed from his idealized memories of Elisabeth.

First appears in chapter 6

A prosperous young landowner known to Reinhard and Elisabeth's family. His attentions to Elisabeth become important during Reinhard's long absences from home.