Harry Houdini (aka Ehrich)
Description
He's short, strongly built. Dark hair, blue eyes, and a piercing
look. Fair skin.
Biography
Born in Hungary, though he claims Wisconsin, in 1874. Lived in New
York for awhile, doing odd jobs to support his family. Studied magic,
swimming, track, and other athletic skills. Assumed the name Houdini
after his idol, the famous Houdin. Became an entertainer at 16 when
his father died, and gave shows at amusement parks and the like, with
his brother Theo. Married Beatrice in 1893 and was married, then
did his act alone without his brother. Became a success, and went on
a European tour where he was very popular. He specialized in daring
stunts, usually to advertise his shows.
He spent his later years debunking spiritualism, but with the
motivation to actually find something that worked so he could contact
his mother (and thus was disgusted with the fakes). Died in 1926 (on
Halloween), after a blow to the stomach he wasn't prepared for.
He thinks Riverworld may be what he was searching for with
spiritualists, and has pondered how he can communicate with the living
world now.
He presumably speaks English, German, French, and Russian.
No formal education.
Skills
Sleight of hand of course. Very athletic in swimming, track. Amazing
breath control and constitution. Contortionist. Mechanical engineering.
Of course, most of his feats were indeed tricks. But most also
involved a small trick with a lot of hype and a lot of difficult
moves. He can't escape from everything, but he won't let on.
Personality Questions
-
Would your character prefer a game of chess or a game of football?
-
Both, one after the other.
-
If your character found a wallet in the street, would they return it?
-
Probably not. But if he did, he would return it anonymously, then
later amaze the person with feats of mentalism, gleaned from the
knowledge he found in the wallet.
-
Would your character be more likely to be the life of the party or
to quietly observe the goings-on?
-
He's the master of ceremonies, as that's what he's used to.
- Would your character be found on the top of a pyramid of people or
on the bottom?
-
Near the top. He makes friends easily.
-
Pretending to be your character, rank the following statements in order
of truth. Leave out statements that are false about your character.
-
a. Other people listen to what I say
b. I am physically above-average
c. I am clever with my hands
d. I notice my surroundings
e. I love to read
f. I always tell the truth