How does The Confessions of Felix Krull, Confidence Man portray its main character?

In The Confessions of Felix Krull, Confidence Man, Thomas Mann portrays the protagonist, Felix Krull, as a master of deception who lacks traditional morality from childhood. Rather than being driven by greed, Krull is motivated by the sheer joy of performing a role well and the satisfaction of a job expertly executed.1

Krull possesses a remarkable ability to win the favor and love of others by intuitively enacting the specific roles they desire him to play. Throughout the novel, he fluidly transitions between identities—acting as a servant, a guest, and even posing as a nobleman—to navigate various social situations and escapades.12

Mann uses Krull to explore the theme of the immorality of the artist, presenting criminality as a form of art. While the work serves as a light, humorous parody, it also functions as a critical commentary on the modern bourgeoisie, highlighting the ease with which Krull manipulates those around him.1