Life of Galileo

Character analysis
The Life of Galileo” is a play written by Bertolt Brecht,
which tells the story of the famous astronomer
Galileo Galilei and his conflict with the Catholic
Church over his ideas about the heliocentric theory
of the universe. Here are some key characters in the
play and a brief analysis of each:
Galileo Galilei
Galileo is the main protagonist of the play. He is a
brilliant scientist who is obsessed with understanding
the workings of the universe. Galileo’s passion for
knowledge is the driving force behind his actions, but
it also leads him into conflict with the Church. As the
play progresses, Galileo struggles to balance his
desire for truth with the political and social pressures
of his time.
Andrea Sarti
Andrea is a young student who works with Galileo as
his apprentice. He is fascinated by Galileo’s ideas and
the possibilities of science. However, as the play
progresses, Andrea becomes disillusioned with
Galileo’s willingness to compromise his beliefs in
order to protect himself from persecution.
Ludovico Marsili
Ludovico is a wealthy patron of Galileo’s who initially
supports his work. However, when Galileo’s ideas
begin to clash with the Church, Ludovico becomes
more cautious and eventually turns against him.
Virginia Galilei
Virginia is Galileo’s daughter. She is a strong-willed
and intelligent young woman who shares her father’s
passion for knowledge. However, as a woman in a
patriarchal society, she is limited in her ability to
pursue her own ambitions.
Cardinal Barberini
Cardinal Barberini is a representative of the Catholic
Church who initially supports Galileo’s work.
However, when Galileo refuses to recant his beliefs,
Barberini turns against him and becomes one of his
fiercest critics.
Conclusion
“The Life of Galileo” is a play about the struggle
between knowledge and power. Through the
character of Galileo and his associates, Brecht
explores the tension between scientific discovery and
the political and social pressures that can limit it. The
play also raises questions about the role of religion in
society and the ways in which power structures can
suppress new ideas and limit progress.
Thank you