Rudolf Ressendyll Character Sketch

 Rudolf Ressendyll

Introduction:

Rudolf Ressendyll is the hero of the novel written by Sir Anthony hope titled as prisoner of zenda. He is indeed the most glorious and most enchanting figure in the novel filled with adventure and excitement. He is the protagonist in the novel and portrait as the typical hero of romance with great many abilities to attract others. His thoughts, emotions and unconditional devotion make him a noble character.

Physical appearance:

He is a young gallant, tall, well built and handsome young man of 29. He has two characteristic features of Elphberg that is red hair and pointed nose. He has heavy mustache and carefully pointed imperial and six feet two inches of stature. Despite his striking resemblance to Rudolph Elphberg, the new king of Ruritania, there was some difference as Ressendyll himself pointed out.

“The king’s face was slightly fleshier than mine and his mouth lacking something of the firmness which was to be gathered from my close shutting lips”

Family background:

He belongs to a lord and aristocratic family of Burlesdon, England. Being a rich man he seems to be a carefree young man in the beginning of the novel. His sister in law mocks him for that he says:

“Why in the world should I do anything? My position is the comfortable one”

“our family does not need things to do”

Carefree young man:

By nature, he is very gentle and honest but spends his time in random sort of activities and amusements. But when he impersonates the king of Ruritania, he dazzles our imaginations by showing a deep sense of responsibilities. He begins to display his talents and sterling qualities.

Well educated:

He has received his education from a Germen University.

A skill full man:

He can speak many languages. He is a good shooter, a skill full sword man and an expert horseman.

A man of firm commitment:

Rudolf Ressendyll demonstrates a high level of commitment throughout the novel. He says to his sister in law:

“When I do things, I do not do it by halves”

Man of honor:

He is the man of honor and integrity. He impersonates the king but takes it as his duty. During a conversation with his sister in law to a man spirit, my dear rose, opportunities are duties.

Courageous and honest:

He proves himself a man of spirit when he gets a chance to become a king but he continues his struggle to rescue the king and courageously faces the dangerous circumstances. He doesn’t take advantage of Princess Flavia in his role as a king. He refuses Rupert’s offer in Zenda to remain the king and get rid of the real king and Black Michael

Crushing political conspiracy:

Although Ressendyll initially shows hesitation to venture on the imposter of the king, he fulfills his duty with honor, grace and dignity. He fails Michael’s plot to be the king of Ruritania and luck also favors him.

Unconditional Love:

According to Sapt’s plan, ressendyll has to show affection to princess Flavia. However things take a different turn and ressendyll helplessly falls in love with Princess Flavia.

The great sacrifice:

Ressendyll’s love for Flavia was noble in nature. They bid farewell to their short lived happiness and part their ways with burden of love. Nothing can beautifully sum up this love episode then Ressendyll’s own words.