# Frank Kromer — Demian character guide

> Frank Kromer in Demian by Hermann Hesse.

**Role:** supporting

**Also known as:** Kromer

**First appearance:** 0001-i-two-worlds

## Snapshot

An older boy who catches Sinclair in a petty lie and turns it into a weapon of blackmail, teaching him the first real taste of fear.

## Who they are

Kromer is a small-time tyrant who preys on younger children, and once he has leverage over Sinclair he uses it methodically, extracting money and obedience with quiet menace. He represents the first crack in Sinclair's protected world, the discovery that shame and power can be wielded by anyone. His hold on the boy is what first drives Sinclair to seek help—and to meet Demian.

## Relationships

### [Max Demian](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/characters/max_demian)

_rivalry_

Frank Kromer is a bully who is ultimately overpowered and psychologically defeated by Max Demian.

### [Mother Eve](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/characters/mother_eve)

_rivalry_

Frank Kromer is a threat that Mother Eve helps to neutralize through her influence.

### [Max Demian](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/characters/max_demian)

_rivalry_

Frank Kromer is a bully who is ultimately overpowered and psychologically defeated by Max Demian.

## In the story

### [Two Worlds](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/chapters/i-two-worlds)

A coarse, older public-school boy who intimidates Sinclair and becomes a source of dread and manipulation.

### [II: Cain](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/chapters/ii-cain)

Sinclair forgets about Kromer for hours after his conversation with Demian, indicating a temporary relief from his torment.

### [III: The Thief on the Cross](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/chapters/iii-the-thief-on-the-cross)

Mentioned as a past figure from Sinclair's childhood; the 'dark world' that was once external is now internal.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/characters/frank_kromer
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/demian_se/characters