# Justus Kröger — Buddenbrooks character guide

> Justus Kröger in Buddenbrooks by Thomas Mann.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Consul Kröger, Justus

**First appearance:** 0001-buddenbrooks

## Who they are

Elisabeth Buddenbrook's brother, a member of the Kröger family who faces financial decline.

## In the story

### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/chapters/part-i-viii)

Joins the billiard game and contributes to the initial conversation about the stormy weather and its impact on shipping.

### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/chapters/part-ii-v)

Mentioned indirectly as the cause of financial strain on the Kröger fortune. The Consul criticizes his poor business sense and impulsiveness, highlighting a contrast between the prudent Buddenbrooks and the more extravagant Krögers.

### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/chapters/part-iv-iii)

Mentioned as Consul Kröger, greeted by Johann Buddenbrook; his relation to Burgomaster Överdieck enhances the Buddenbrooks' social standing.

### [Family Fortunes and Personal Defenses](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/chapters/part-iv-x)

Retires after inheriting from his mother; his eldest son Jacob's dishonesty in Hamburg causes family strife and shame.

### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/chapters/part-v-i)

The family's uncle, present for the reading of the will. He offers commentary on the provisions, jokes about Thomas's new role, and agrees to become Clara's guardian. He also announces the sale of the family's property outside the Castle Gate.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/characters/justus_kroeger
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/buddenbrooks_se/characters