Page 2: Character Dynamics and Relationship Development

Page 2 of The Pushcart Peddlers PDF delves deeper into the relationship between Cornelius and Shimmel, exploring their dynamic and how it evolves throughout the play.

The text examines possible situations that arise between the characters, such as unfair business practices and the nature of their agreement. It poses the question of whether Cornelius remains friendly or becomes increasingly manipulative.

Highlight: The relationship between Cornelius and Shimmel is characterized by a power imbalance, with Cornelius using Shimmel for his own aims while Shimmel trusts Cornelius completely.

The page describes their relationship in several ways:

1. Cornelius is likened to a parasite, emphasizing his exploitative nature.
2. Cornelius is portrayed as the dominant part of the relationship.
3. Their dynamic is described as a typical "good guy - bad guy" relationship.

Example: Cornelius's character development is noted, shifting from initially friendly to increasingly manipulative and mean as the play progresses.

The text also reveals aspects of both characters:

1. Cornelius is shown to be manipulative and egoistic.
2. Shimmel is described as hard-working but also naive and under pressure.

Definition: Character development - The process by which a character's personality, beliefs, or situation changes over the course of a narrative.

Interestingly, the page notes that Cornelius does help Shimmel at the end, but only after Shimmel begs for assistance, further highlighting the complex nature of their relationship in The Pushcart Peddlers interpretation.

Page 3: Introduction of Maggie and Character Interactions

Page 3 of The Pushcart Peddlers unterrichtsmaterial introduces the character of Maggie and explores the interactions between her, Shimmel, and Cornelius. This page provides insight into the dynamics between all three main characters and delves deeper into Maggie's complex personality.

The reactions between the characters are described as follows:

1. Shimmel feels pity for Maggie but is also embarrassed and afraid of her.
2. Maggie is initially angry with Shimmel but makes fun of his name.
3. Cornelius is polite in his interactions with Maggie.
4. Maggie seems to be okay with Cornelius.

Highlight: The interactions reveal the power dynamics and social hierarchies among the characters, with Shimmel at the bottom, Maggie in the middle, and Cornelius at the top.

Maggie's character is described in detail, revealing her multifaceted nature:

Vocabulary: Ambiguous - Having or expressing more than one possible meaning, sometimes intentionally.

Maggie is portrayed as:

1. Looking innocent but being very aggressive
2. Mistrustful and somewhat rude
3. Appearing kind and angelic on the outside, but nasty and insulting in reality
4. Self-confident and quick-tempered
5. Ignorant and selfish
6. Tough and street-smart

Example: Shimmel's attempt to appease Maggie by offering her a banana demonstrates his naivety and Maggie's power in the situation.

The page also suggests possible titles for Maggie's character, such as "Maggie the flower girl" or "The beautiful girl," indicating her role as a flower seller and her attractive appearance.

This section of The Pushcart Peddlers Summary highlights the complexity of the characters and their relationships, adding depth to the overall narrative and themes of the play.