Abstract

Heinlein's characters have often been criticized for being flat and underdeveloped. This criticism seems to stem from the relative lack of internal development in Heinleints characters, but by focusing on this lack, much of the existing criticism seems to overlook the ways in which Heinlein develops his characters and the points that he makes by focusing on them as he does. To explore how Heinlein uses his characters to explore philosophical and political issues, the character of Lazarus Long will be considered. Heinlein used Lazarus in more of his fiction than any other character, and by exploring Lazarus' history, physical makeup, psychological disposition, moral outlook, and social background, this study brings out how Lazarus displays characteristics that Heinlein seems to portray as commendable. Lazarus' competence and immortality allow him to be a pinnacle of human achievement.