Oscar Matzerath

Oscar Matzerath, an eccentric and unforgettable character in literature, is a diminutive storyteller who halted his growth at the age of three, a conscious decision made to shield himself from the rampant insanity of Nazi Germany. Endowed with magical abilities, Oscar can shatter glass with his voice, powers that are enhanced by his series of tin drums. These drums serve as a conduit for his influence over people and events, akin to a legendary German folk hero or artist. Oscar's drum becomes a powerful symbol, seen as a mere toy by adults but wielding significant impact. Notably, in one scene, he disrupts a Nazi rally by playing "The Blue Danube," causing the attendees to break into a Charleston dance, thereby undermining the event while he remains unnoticed. This incident underscores the underestimated power of art, a recurring theme in Grass's narrative.

Oscar's alliance with Mr. Bebra, a circus midget and fellow artist, further illustrates the extraordinary influence and near-supernatural capabilities artists possess despite societal perceptions of them as anomalies. Through his interactions with various representatives of German society, Oscar uses his drum to expose and critique how individuals accommodate themselves to the Nazi regime's demands.

Oscar's story is rich with complexity and depth, resonating with a cast that possesses the vibrant intricacies of Dickensian characters. His personal journey is intertwined with the broader narrative of resistance and the power of individual agency amidst oppressive political climates.

Agnes Matzerath

Agnes Matzerath, Oscar's mother, engages in a discreet romantic affair with her cousin Jan Bronski throughout the early parts of the novel. Her experiences reflect the broader oppression women faced under the Nazi regime, which consigned them to subordinate positions within both familial and societal structures. Agnes's life is emblematic of the struggle for identity and agency in an era that sought to suppress female independence.

Alfred Matzerath

Alfred Matzerath, Agnes's husband, though likely not Oscar's biological father, is characterized by his staunch commitment to the Nazi Party. He joined before Hitler's rise to power, embodying the shortsighted and greedy nature of his social class. As a small business owner, he prioritizes economic gain over moral principles. His tragic end, swallowing his Nazi badge during the Russian invasion of Danzig, symbolizes the ultimate futility of his misguided loyalties.

Jan Bronski

Jan Bronski, Agnes's Polish cousin and probable father of Oscar, is portrayed as kind-hearted and generous. However, his inability or reluctance to understand the true nature of the Nazi regime renders him either naive or indifferent. His deep devotion to Agnes and friendship with Oscar contrast with his lack of political or moral conviction, painting a picture of a man caught between love and passive acceptance of the harsh realities around him.

Mr. Bebra

Mr. Bebra, a circus midget and esteemed artist, becomes a mentor to Oscar following the death of his mother. Excelling in various artistic fields, Bebra epitomizes adaptability and survival. Despite his aversion to the Nazis, he teaches Oscar how to navigate any circumstance, highlighting the resilience and power of artists in the face of adversity. His pragmatic approach to survival underscores the novel's exploration of artistic power and endurance.

Roswitha Raguna

Roswitha Raguna, an associate of Mr. Bebra, is even shorter than he is and exhibits the extraordinary ability to sleep anywhere, anytime. Her intelligence allows her to recognize the pervasive evil in Germany, yet she metaphorically hibernates through the Nazi horrors. Roswitha's character symbolizes the passive endurance of those who are aware of the atrocities but remain untouched by them, choosing to endure silently.

Herbert Truczinski

Herbert Truczinski, who resides near the Matzerath family in...