Who Peter is
Peter is eleven when he meets Heidi on the path toward her grandfather's mountain hut. He collects the goats and takes them up to the high pasture, where Heidi soon joins him.
He is a capable goatherd, though he can be rough when the animals stray. His practical knowledge helps Heidi understand the mountain world that fills her with wonder.
Peter and the others in the story
Peter becomes Heidi's first friend, sharing his place in the pastures even when her chatter annoys him. When she thinks the glowing mountains are on fire, he explains that the sight returns every evening.
At home, Peter lives with his mother and his elderly grandmother, who is blind. His grandmother loves hearing hymns, but Peter can barely read them aloud to her.
How Peter changes
Heidi's arrival brings Peter a companion who cares deeply about the goats and helps look after them. His roughness contrasts with her concern for the animals, showing a difference between the two friends.
Their friendship also brings Heidi into his family's home, where she notices his grandmother's needs. Through Peter, Heidi finds both companionship outdoors and someone nearby who welcomes her steady care.
Questions
Who is Peter in Heidi?
Peter is a young goatherd and Heidi's friend in the Swiss mountains.
Who does Peter live with?
He shares a small hut with his mother and his blind grandmother.
Is Peter good at school?
Schoolwork is not Peter's strength, and he struggles to read the hymns his grandmother wants to hear. He is more capable at tending goats.