Steppenwolf

A minor symbol in the novel is the doorway in the stairwell of the apartment where Haller lives. He sits on the stairs and ponders the doorway, and he shares its importance with the unnamed narrator. Pick out some of the details about the doorway that seem important to Haller. Why are these details important? What do they reveal about Haller and his values?

Haller initially presents himself as a Steppenwolf, from which the title of the novel is derived. How does the novel’s portrayal of the Steppenwolf change over the course of the narrative, and how do these changes, in turn, affect your understanding of Haller’s character?

The treatise is specific to Haller, and it conjures details and insights that could only apply to him. However, many of the treatise’s arguments apply to humanity more broadly. Review the treatise and pick out some passages that seem to apply only to Haller, as well as some that apply to everyone. How do these details differ? What specific aspects of Haller does the treatise highlight to note his difference from other people?

After reading the treatise, Haller is not satisfied and wants to find out more about the Magic Theater. Why is Haller so invested in the Magic Theater? What is he hoping to find there? Using evidence from the text, show how Haller views the Magic Theater as a way to resolve the problems in his life, and why.

Haller’s interactions with the professor and the professor’s wife reveal how Haller views and tries to socialize with other people. How does Haller feel about the professor? The professor’s wife? What do Haller’s criticisms of others reveal about himself? Why is the picture of Goethe so important to Haller, and what does it reveal about the professor?

From the moment Haller meets Hermine, she insists that she is a reflection of Haller. Why is it important that Hermine looks like Haller’s childhood friend, rather than looking like Haller, himself? What does Hermine’s androgyny reveal to Haller about his own psyche?

Hermine takes on many roles in Haller’s journey toward fulfillment. She begins as a mother to Haller, then becomes a friend, and, finally, a lover and victim. What do these shifts reveal about Haller’s desires? Using evidence from the text, show how Hermine fulfills Haller’s needs throughout their relationship, and explain the significance of her role changing to fit Haller’s needs.

The Magic Theater is a lasting and influential concept from Steppenwolf. What does the Magic Theater mean in the context of the novel? Why is it important, and what is the purpose of the different scenes Haller experiences within it?