The narrator and bridge between the audience and the play's storylines, providing context and guiding audience perception while maintaining a layer of detachment from the emotional drama.

A soldier and Grusha’s love interest, who leaves his cross necklace with her as a symbol of his affection, marking their promise to reunite upon his return from service.

A wealthy and self-absorbed woman, she is more concerned with her material possessions than her young son, Michael, when seeking safety during turbulent times.

A city clerk who becomes an unconventional Judge, known for his unpredictable rulings and underlying sense of justice despite his eccentric and often disreputable behavior.

Grusha’s brother, who provides her temporary shelter but is influenced heavily by his wife’s demands and societal expectations, leading to a complicated family dynamic.

Lavrenti’s wife, who is deeply cautious and inquisitive, her pressing questions and anxiety over Grusha’s presence ultimately influence the significant decisions within the family.