Character Analysis for "The Thief Lord" by Cornelia Funke

List of Characters

Role Identification

Prosper and Bo

Prosper and Bo are the two central characters in "The Thief Lord." They are brothers who run away to Venice to escape their cruel aunt. Prosper takes on the role of the protective older brother, while Bo is the innocent and imaginative younger sibling.

Scipio

Scipio acts as both an antagonist and an anti-hero in the story. He is a charming and enigmatic figure who leads a group of child thieves.

Hornet, Barbarossa, Victor, Ida Spavento, and Dottor Massimo

These characters play supporting roles in the lives of Prosper, Bo, and Scipio. Each of them has a unique impact on the story's development and the protagonists' growth.

Character Descriptions

Prosper

Prosper is a resourceful and responsible young boy who takes care of his brother, Bo. He is mature for his age and possesses a strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness towards Bo.

Bo

Bo is an innocent and imaginative child with a deep love for adventure and fairy tales. His innocence and openness serve as a source of light in the otherwise dark world of the story.

Scipio

Scipio is a charismatic and mysterious teenager who leads a double life. By day, he is a wealthy young man, and by night, he is the Thief Lord, leading a band of child thieves through the streets of Venice.

Hornet

Hornet is a street-wise girl who becomes an ally to Prosper and Bo. She is independent, resourceful, and fiercely loyal to her friends.

Barbarossa

Barbarossa is a kind-hearted and eccentric individual who befriends the group of child thieves. He acts as a mentor and father figure to the children.

Victor

Victor is a detective hired to track down the runaway brothers. He is relentless in his pursuit but also shows a sense of empathy and understanding towards the children.

Ida Spavento

Ida Spavento is a photographer who becomes involved in the children's adventures. She provides them with support and guidance while also being a mysterious and enigmatic presence.

Dottor Massimo

Dottor Massimo is a gentle yet reclusive individual who plays a crucial role in the children's lives, offering them sanctuary and a sense of belonging.

Character Traits

Prosper

• Resourceful
• Responsible
• Loyal
• Protective
• Mature

Bo

• Innocent
• Imaginative
• Open-hearted
• Adventurous
• Trusting

Scipio

• Charismatic
• Mysterious
• Charming
• Conflicted
• Adventurous

Hornet

• Independent
• Resourceful
• Loyal
• Street-wise
• Tough

Barbarossa

• Kind-hearted
• Eccentric
• Mentor
• Fatherly
• Supportive

Victor

• Relentless
• Empathetic
• Understanding
• Determined
• Perceptive

Ida Spavento

• Mysterious
• Supportive
• Enigmatic
• Artistic
• Protective

Dottor Massimo

• Gentle
• Reclusive
• Nurturing
• Wise
• Supportive

Character Background

Prosper and Bo

Prosper and Bo come from a troubled family background, having lost their parents and facing mistreatment from their aunt. Their desire for a better life leads them to run away to Venice, where they encounter a series of adventures and challenges.

Scipio

Scipio comes from a wealthy family but seeks excitement and freedom by leading a double life as the Thief Lord. His background adds complexity to his character, as he grapples with conflicting loyalties and desires.

Hornet, Barbarossa, Victor, Ida Spavento, and Dottor Massimo

Each of these characters brings their own unique background and experiences to the story, enriching the narrative with diverse perspectives and motivations.

Character Arcs

Prosper

Prosper's character arc involves him evolving from a protective older brother to a more open-minded and trusting individual, learning to rely on others and embrace the support of his newfound friends.

Bo

Bo's character arc centers on his growth from a naive and imaginative child to a more resilient and aware young boy, navigating the challenges of the real world while holding on to his sense of wonder.

Scipio

Scipio's character arc is marked by his internal conflict and eventual reconciliation of his two identities, leading to a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world.

Hornet, Barbarossa, Victor, Ida Spavento, and Dottor Massimo

Each of these supporting characters undergoes their own arcs, contributing to the overall development and resolution of the story.

Relationships

Prosper and Bo

The bond between Prosper and Bo is one of unwavering loyalty and love, with Prosper taking on a parental role for his younger brother.

Prosper and Hornet

Prosper and Hornet develop a strong friendship based on mutual respect and reliance, supporting each other through the challenges they face.

Scipio and the Children

Scipio's relationship with the child thieves is complex, evolving from a leader-follower dynamic to one of mutual understanding and camaraderie.

Ida Spavento and Dottor Massimo

The relationship between Ida Spavento and Dottor Massimo adds an element of mystery and guidance to the children's journey, providing them with unexpected allies.

Conclusion

"The Thief Lord" presents a rich tapestry of characters, each with their own distinct traits, backgrounds, and arcs. Through their interactions and relationships, the story unfolds, weaving together themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery within the enchanting backdrop of Venice.