A prosperous nobleman who farms his family estate, Levin is introspective and concerned with finding meaning and morality in life, and has an enduring interest in Kitty Scherbatsky.

A charming and beautiful young debutante who initially falls for Vronsky but eventually sees Levin's proposal of marriage with new understanding.

A young cavalry officer from a wealthy family who becomes romantically involved with Anna, significantly affecting both their lives.

Anna's older husband and a senior official in the government, who is deeply concerned with social propriety and his public image.

Anna's brother, a civil servant known for his carefree and sociable nature, who frequently finds himself in financial and marital difficulties.

Stiva's wife and Kitty's sister, Dolly is primarily devoted to her children and struggles with her husband's infidelity.

Levin's younger brother, a radical who lives a troubled life and is a source of concern for Levin.

A Moscow socialite known for her strong Christian beliefs and her influence over Karenin after Anna's departure.

Levin's half-brother, an intellectual who reflects the interests of the Russian nobility and focuses on social and philosophical debates.

Vronsky’s cousin and supportive of his affair with Anna, though her support wanes as the relationship disrupts social conventions.

Kitty and Dolly's parents, representing traditional aristocratic values and having differing views on modern courtship for their daughters.

Anna and Karenin’s young son, whose presence in the novel illustrates Anna’s maternal affection and the complexity of her personal life.