Who the Steadfast Tin Soldier is
The Steadfast Tin Soldier begins life among twenty-five toy soldiers made from one old spoon. He is cast last and has only one leg because the tin runs short. Yet he stands as firmly as the others, giving the tale its quiet image of steadiness.
The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the others in the story
On a table in the playroom, he sees a paper dancer in a castle of cardboard. She balances on one leg, and he believes that she is like him. A goblin in a snuffbox warns him to stop looking at her, but he does not look away.
How the Steadfast Tin Soldier changes
The next morning, someone puts the soldier on a windowsill, and he tumbles into the street. The tale leaves open whether the wind or the goblin sends him falling. His surroundings change from a playroom to gutters, drains and canals, while his silent devotion and firmness remain.
Questions
Why does the Steadfast Tin Soldier have one leg?
He has one leg because there is not enough tin left when he is cast.
Who does the Steadfast Tin Soldier love?
He loves the paper dancer, whose pose makes him think she has one leg like him.
What makes the Steadfast Tin Soldier steadfast?
He stands firm through danger and remains devoted to the dancer.
