Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Bebra

More than anyone else, Bebra is definitely Oskar's mentor. The reason might be that Bebra's the first person who ever tells Oskar that his small stature can be an advantage more than a burden. Bebra's convinced that he and all other little people have a better opportunity to develop their intellects, and that this makes them superior to normal people. Bebra can be small and successful without having to pretend to be a child. This idea fits well with Oskar's grandiose self-image, so he adopts Bebra as his role model and follows his advice to control people before they control you.

Bebra's so impressive that he even makes it all the way to the rank of Captain in the German army. Oskar's no doubt gratified to watch Bebra boss a bunch of bigger people around.