"The Seven Chinese Brothers" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

The Seven Chinese Brothers, written by Margaret Mahy, is a children's book that tells the story of seven brothers who possess unique abilities. The main character is the First Brother, who is the protagonist of the story. The other six brothers and various supporting characters play significant roles in the narrative.

Character Descriptions

1. First Brother: The First Brother is the eldest of the seven brothers. He has the ability to swallow the ocean and withstand its depths. He is depicted as intelligent and resourceful.
2. Second Brother: The Second Brother has an iron neck that cannot be cut. He is portrayed as strong and brave.
3. Third Brother: The Third Brother has an ability to stretch his legs, allowing him to run faster than anyone else. He is depicted as agile and quick-witted.
4. Fourth Brother: The Fourth Brother has an iron-clad stomach that can digest anything, even poison. He is portrayed as fearless and resilient.
5. Fifth Brother: The Fifth Brother has eyes that can see long distances. He is depicted as observant and perceptive.
6. Sixth Brother: The Sixth Brother has an ability to breathe fire. He is portrayed as powerful and fierce.
7. Seventh Brother: The Seventh Brother has the power to withstand great heat. He is depicted as calm and composed.
8. Mother: The Mother of the seven brothers is a caring and supportive character. She plays a significant role in the story, ensuring the well-being of her sons.
9. Emperor: The Emperor is the main antagonist of the story. He is portrayed as a cruel and oppressive ruler who seeks to exploit the unique abilities of the brothers for his own gain.

Character Traits

1. First Brother: Intelligent, resourceful, brave.
2. Second Brother: Strong, brave.
3. Third Brother: Agile, quick-witted.
4. Fourth Brother: Fearless, resilient.
5. Fifth Brother: Observant, perceptive.
6. Sixth Brother: Powerful, fierce.
7. Seventh Brother: Calm, composed.
8. Mother: Caring, supportive.
9. Emperor: Cruel, oppressive.

Character Background

The seven brothers in "The Seven Chinese Brothers" are born into a family in ancient China. Each brother possesses a unique power, making them extraordinary. They live a peaceful life with their loving mother until the Emperor discovers their abilities and seeks to exploit them for his own gain. The brothers are forced to confront the Emperor and use their powers to protect themselves and their family.

Character Arcs

1. First Brother: The First Brother initially uses his ability to swallow the ocean to save a town from flooding. However, when the Emperor tries to exploit his power, he becomes determined to protect his family and uses his intelligence to outsmart the Emperor.
2. Second Brother: The Second Brother initially demonstrates his strength by saving a fisherman from drowning. As the story progresses, he joins his brothers in their quest to resist the Emperor's tyranny.
3. Third Brother: The Third Brother's ability to stretch his legs allows him to run faster than anyone else. He uses his agility and quick thinking to help his brothers in their journey to defeat the Emperor.
4. Fourth Brother: The Fourth Brother's iron-clad stomach enables him to consume poison without harm. He demonstrates his resilience by withstanding the Emperor's attempts to harm him and his brothers.
5. Fifth Brother: The Fifth Brother's ability to see long distances helps him uncover the Emperor's plans and warn his brothers. He plays a crucial role in their mission to protect their family.
6. Sixth Brother: The Sixth Brother's ability to breathe fire is a powerful tool in their fight against the Emperor's forces. He learns to control his power and use it strategically.
7. Seventh Brother: The Seventh Brother's ability to withstand great heat allows him to endure the Emperor's attempts to harm him. He remains calm and composed throughout the story, providing support to his brothers.
8. Mother: The Mother's role evolves from a nurturing caregiver to a strong advocate for her sons' well-being. She supports them in their fight against the Emperor and acts as a source of wisdom and guidance.
9. Emperor: The Emperor's character arc portrays his descent into tyranny and his eventual defeat at the hands of the brothers. His greed and cruelty lead to his downfall as the brothers outsmart him and protect their family.

Relationships

The relationships between the characters in "The Seven Chinese Brothers" are characterized by love, support, and resilience. The brothers share a deep bond as they rely on each other's unique abilities to overcome challenges and protect their family. Their relationship with their Mother is one of trust and respect, as she guides and supports them throughout their journey.

The Emperor's relationship with the brothers is one of exploitation and cruelty, as he seeks to harness their powers for his own gain. However, the brothers' resilience and unity ultimately lead to the Emperor's defeat.

Overall, the relationships in the book highlight the importance of family, loyalty, and the power of unity in the face of adversity.