rHandelster

rHandelster is a fictional character from the *Handelster* series of novels and short stories by German author Thomas Brussig. The character first appeared in *Helden wie wir* (*Heroes Like Us*, 1995) and has since become a central figure in Brussig’s satirical exploration of East German society during the late GDR era and its immediate aftermath. The name "rHandelster" is a playful, self-deprecating pun, combining the German word "Handelster" (a humorous, nonsensical term for a person who engages in petty trade or commerce) with the prefix "r," which in German can imply a sense of redundancy or irony, as in "r" for "re-" or "repetition."

rHandelster is portrayed as a naive, idealistic young man from the former East Germany who struggles to adapt to the rapid economic and social changes following German reunification in 1990. The character embodies the disillusionment and absurdity of the transition period, often finding himself in ridiculous or surreal situations that highlight the contradictions of post-reunification Germany. His journey is marked by a mix of optimism, cynicism, and a deep sense of alienation, as he navigates a world where his old values and aspirations no longer hold meaning.

Brussig’s portrayal of rHandelster is both humorous and poignant, using the character to critique the naivety of youth, the failures of political systems, and the economic disparities between East and West Germany. The name itself reflects the character’s role as a kind of everyman, caught between the idealism of his youth and the harsh realities of a changing society. While rHandelster’s story is fictional, it resonates with many East Germans who experienced a similar sense of disorientation during the turbulent years following reunification.

The character has been analyzed by scholars and readers alike as a symbol of the broader cultural and psychological shifts in Germany during the 1990s. Brussig’s work, including the *Handelster* series, remains influential in discussions about East German identity, the legacy of the GDR, and the complexities of post-unification Germany.