By smartcubs Mr. Keesing is a character from Anne Frank’s “The Diary of a Young Girl.” As Anne Frank’s math teacher, he plays a significant role in her school life and her diary. Mr. Keesing is portrayed through Anne’s witty and perceptive descriptions, revealing his personality and their evolving relationship.
Introduction
Mr. Keesing is a strict but fair mathematics teacher at the Jewish Lyceum in Amsterdam, where Anne Frank is a student. Initially depicted as stern and somewhat old-fashioned, Mr. Keesing’s character undergoes a subtle transformation through his interactions with Anne.
Appearance
- Physical Description: Mr. Keesing is described as an elderly man with a serious demeanor. Specific details about his physical appearance are sparse, but he is often visualized as a typical schoolteacher of his time.
- Expression: His expressions are often stern and no-nonsense, reflecting his approach to teaching and discipline.
Personality Traits
- Stern: Mr. Keesing is initially presented as a strict disciplinarian who maintains a serious atmosphere in his classroom. He has little patience for disruptions and expects his students to adhere to his rules.
- Old-fashioned: He holds traditional views on education and behavior, believing in a structured and disciplined approach to learning.
- Fair-minded: Despite his stern exterior, Mr. Keesing is fair and just. He recognizes and appreciates Anne’s intelligence and wit, even though she challenges his authority.
- Humorous: As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Mr. Keesing has a sense of humor. He appreciates Anne’s clever responses to his assignments and eventually lightens up, showing a more personable side.
- Adaptable: Mr. Keesing’s willingness to change his attitude towards Anne demonstrates his adaptability and open-mindedness. He learns to appreciate her unique qualities and adjusts his behavior accordingly.
Relationships
- Anne Frank: The relationship between Mr. Keesing and Anne is central to his character. Initially, he views Anne as a chatterbox and often reprimands her for talking too much in class. However, he gradually comes to appreciate her intelligence and creativity. Their interactions reveal a dynamic where strictness gives way to mutual respect and understanding.
- Students: Mr. Keesing’s interactions with his other students are less detailed, but he is generally portrayed as a teacher who is respected, though perhaps feared, by his pupils due to his strict nature.
Actions and Motivations
- Disciplinary Assignments: To address Anne’s tendency to talk in class, Mr. Keesing gives her extra homework assignments. These tasks are meant to curb her behavior but also reveal his belief in the importance of discipline.
- Appreciation of Wit: Mr. Keesing assigns Anne essays on the topic of her talkativeness, expecting them to be punitive. However, Anne’s humorous and insightful essays amuse him, leading him to appreciate her wit and intelligence.
- Change of Heart: Recognizing Anne’s talent and the limitations of his old-fashioned methods, Mr. Keesing changes his approach. He becomes more lenient and supportive, indicating his respect for Anne’s unique qualities.
Key Moments
- Essay Assignments: The series of essays Mr. Keesing assigns to Anne, including “Quack, Quack, Quack, Said Mistress Chatterbox,” are pivotal. Anne’s clever responses to these assignments showcase her wit and ultimately lead to a change in Mr. Keesing’s perception of her.
- Acceptance of Anne’s Nature: The turning point in their relationship comes when Mr. Keesing acknowledges Anne’s creative and lively spirit. This acceptance marks his transformation from a rigid disciplinarian to a more understanding and supportive teacher.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths:
- Fairness: Mr. Keesing’s fairness allows him to recognize and reward Anne’s talents, despite his initial strictness.
- Humor: His ability to appreciate humor and wit helps bridge the gap between him and Anne, leading to a more positive relationship.
- Adaptability: His willingness to change his approach demonstrates flexibility and open-mindedness.
- Weaknesses:
- Sternness: His initial sternness and rigidity may have created a barrier between him and his students, making him seem unapproachable.
- Traditionalism: His old-fashioned views on discipline and behavior initially prevent him from understanding Anne’s vibrant personality.
Mr. Keesing is a well-rounded character whose journey from a strict, old-fashioned teacher to a more understanding and appreciative mentor highlights the transformative power of humor, wit, and mutual respect. His evolving relationship with Anne Frank underscores the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness in education and personal growth.