In Sweeney Todd, around how old is Tobias?

Question:Anyone know? =]

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Anyone know? =]

I'd go with an age around 17. That way, he's almost an adult and you can see that his state of mind is maybe not exactly 'the norm' for his age group. His mentality FITS an 8-year-old, so that's why his age should be maybe a bit older, because the harsh treatment hashed out on him by Pirelli has slowed his learning progress.

Plus, this way, Toby is very, very believable. There are three dimensions to it:

Because of his childlike mentality, he could see it as almost see himself as a hero, slaying the dragon and also keeping his promise to Lovett that he won't let anything harm her (little does he know it's too late).

Because of the fact that he's a teen, it's also a coming-of-age moment. He's becoming a man and stepping up to protect a lady, even if it means putting himself in danger.

And also due to his age, his relationship with Lovett is left the the audience's imagination. Some could see it as a child seeing her as a mother, and others could percieve it as an older boy just beginning to discover the deeper aspects of love.

Probably around 12

Tobias Ragg, or Toby, must be in his teens--17 or 18 years old. He seems to be beset with some kind of paranoia or mental health issues because of his upbringing. He is loyal to Mrs. Lovett who bakes those wonderful meat pies, but detests and is suspicious of Sweeney Todd.