Family — Buddenbrooks: The Decline Of A

Thomas turns to Schopenhauer’s philosophy, finding comfort in the idea of death.

Scandals and failed marriages drain the family's social capital. Buddenbrooks: The Decline of a Family

The family’s pride; she endures two disastrous marriages to save the family name. Fourth Generation: Hanno Role: The final Buddenbrook. Character: Frail, musical, and deeply sensitive. Thomas turns to Schopenhauer’s philosophy

Mann uses recurring phrases or physical traits to define characters. Buddenbrooks: The Decline of a Family

Establishes the grain firm; represents Enlightenment values. Second Generation: Johann "Jean" Junior Role: The dutiful successor.

Individual desires are constantly sacrificed for "the firm."