Karl Rossmann

Karl Rossmann is the novel’s protagonist. He is a sixteen-year-old boy, and he was born and raised in the city of Prague (which at the time of this book’s writing was part of Germany.) At the beginning of the book, Karl arrives in New York City by boat. He was sent away by his parents after Karl had a sexual relationship with a servant woman. The woman became pregnant with Karl’s child; out of shame, Karl’s parents sent him away.

In New York City, Karl goes to live with his wealthy uncle, who at first accepts him enthusiastically, but who then arbitrarily decides to shun him. Throughout the novel, Karl faces similar misfortunes, as he is severely mistreated by almost everyone whom he meets. Karl hopes only to find a stable life in America, but his attempts repeatedly fail. The novel is unfinished...