Sound of Music - Characterisation

The Sound of Music is a 1965 Rodger and Hammerstein Musical based in the 1930's/1940's. Maria is a nun who can't really live the secluded life, she goes to the hills to sing. Her Matron sends her to Captain Von Trapp's house to be a Governess for his 7 'perfect' children. Von Trapp is a strict military widow who originally disapproves of Maria's idea of fun, freedom and singing but they do fall in love. 

Interpretations after approx. 2 minutes. 

Maria

1. Carefree - She sings and spins on the hills happily. She doesn't mind not having anything (extreme longshot to show she has no one around and nothing but the clothes on her back) 
2. Poor - Her clothes are drabby, dark and look overworn. 
3. 'Head in the Clouds' - She hears the bells of the Convent and starts to panic, showing she isn't where she is supposed to be. 
4. Wants more freedom- "My Hearts wants to beat like the wings of the birds..." 
5. Feels like an outcast - "I go to the hills, when my heart is lonely..."

The last two suggest she wants to find someone who accepts her as she doesn't fulfill the 'criteria' to be a nun. This helps the audience expect change or a possible romance. 

Captain Von Trapp

He still misses his wife, it appears he still wears the
wedding ring in this picture. This shows that the strict
demeanor may be to hide his sadness and loneliness
after he lost his wife.

1. Widowed with children -  Dialogue from the Matron to Maria
2. Rich - Lives in a mansion, this could also be a sign of being a workaholic as he is very strict and treats his children like soldiers in his 'navy'. He is also dressed in a sharp suit.
3. Intimidating - He slams the doors open and he has a stern expression so Maria runs out without him having to say anything to her. He also says 'I will not permit them [The children] to dream their summers away'
4. Cold, Emotionless - He stands far away from Maria, his voice is very emotionless and he is either frowning or has no expression. 
5. Can't control/isn't there for his kids - "You're twelfth in a long line of Governesses" 
6. Proud - "There's nothing wrong with the children, only with the Governesses" 
7. Naval Officer - His name and he uses a naval whistle to 'assemble' the children. It shows he had strict training and upbringing. He is controlled and takes 'no nonsense'