When I brought up the subject of Oberstein I didn't expect quite so much
response...
I tend to agree that Oberstein's purpose is to act as a balance against the
more impetuous, emotional, members of Reinhard's staff. Certainly I think
that's his view of the matter. Rather like the trinity of Kirk/Spock/McCoy,
Oberstein is the cool calculating voice of reason, just as Kircheis - and
later Hildegarde - acts as the voice of the heart. Both have their points
and both (imnsho) are necessary. I suspect, too, that Oberstein was well
aware of that. He himself said he didn't have the talent. Nor did he ever
suggest Reinhard cast out his friendship with Kircheis, merely that he
balance the reins of power more evenly. The Empire's history provides ample
proof that allowing your friends power merely because they're your friends
isn't always a good idea. Reinhard's example with Kircheis might have
encouraged others to take similar paths - and not all friends are as noble
as Kircheis was.
Re: Out-machiavelling (is that a word?) Machiavelli, "The Prince" was
written in a time when Italy was under the control of the French (I think).
Its main focus was ways the various city states might rid themselves of that
yoke. In a way, Oberstein's efforts might be seen as patriotism with a
higher ideal than the power of one family. Too, he *did* hate the nobles'
guts (particularly the Emperor's) and - based on what I've seen of the way
he's treated - I don't entirely blame him.
Re: Whether Oberstein could have succeeded had he had Reinhard's advantages?
That depends on if he were still born blind. If no, then I suspect he might
have. If yes, then I don't think he could - his blindness and the reaction
of those around him to it, has shaped his entire life and soured him
utterly. To do what Reinhard did he would need to be equally able to gain
confidence and - other than his own command (Ferner and the like) I don't
think he could do it. (I'd be interested to know how he got Ferner's evident
loyalty.)
If anyone's still reading this - and is willing to 'spoil' me, I'd really
like some more info on what happens (will happen?) to Oberstein in the third
and fourth series. I know he dies, I know he's injured in a bombing, but I'm
greedy.
Legion
-----------------------------
The artist, like the God of creation, remains within or behind or beyond or
above his handiwork, invisible, refined, out of existence, indifferent,
paring his fingernails
- James Joyce