Anne Frank Complex Character Essay

In literature, a complex character is a person comprised of a variety of traits and different sides to their personality. Anne Frank is an excellent example of a complex character. Throughout the play version of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” Anne, although lively, talkative, stubborn, intelligent, and optimistic, also expresses seriousness, sensitivity, and maturity beyond her years. She possesses a tendency to quickly change her behavior, as stated in the stage directions. “She is thirteen, quick in her movements, interested in everything, mercurial in her emotions.” (Goodrich & Hackett 540) In the beginning of Act 1, Anne demonstrates that she is rebellious and bursting with vitality. Unfortunately, the other fugitives simply do not comply with her need for fun. “I only want some fun… someone to laugh and clown with… After you’ve sat still all day and hardly moved, you’ve got to have some fun. I don’t know what’s the matter with that boy.” Trapped in the secret annex, Anne immediately begins to cause mischief. By stealing Peter’s shoes, mimicking Mr. and Mrs. Van Daan, and arguing with her mother, she has succeeded in aggravating everyone. “Anne: (Mimicking Mrs. Van Daan) ‘Remember, Mr. …show more content…
“Anne: Things have changed. People aren’t like that anymore. ‘Yes Mother.’ ‘No Mother.’ Anything you say, Mother.’ I’ve got to fight things out for myself! Make something of myself!.” If it wasn’t for this positive attitude, Anne would have deeply suffered from the stress of her situation. Her talkative personality doesn’t quite fit with the situation at all, as she must remain quiet for a majority of the day. Naturally, she would immediately start speaking once the opportunity arose. “Mr. Van Daan: (interrupting) Don’t you ever get tired of talking? Suppose you try keeping still for five minutes. Just five minutes.” It is unfortunate that she is criticized for her boundless