A young SS soldier who asks Simon for forgiveness on his deathbed, recounting his experiences and moral conflicts as a member of the Nazi regime. His confession prompts Simon to consider the complexities of guilt and redemption.

Simon’s friend in the concentration camp, known for his devout religious beliefs and thoughtful nature. He provides insight into the ethical questions Simon grapples with regarding forgiving Karl.

A long-time friend of Simon and fellow prisoner, previously a lawyer, who is known for his cynical outlook. He responds directly and with skepticism to Simon's encounter with the dying Nazi.

Another prisoner and colleague of Simon, who once studied architecture and comes from an affluent background. He reacts with intense disdain to Simon’s story of the dying Nazi soldier.

Simon's bunkmate during the final days of the war, evacuated from Auschwitz and studying to become a Catholic priest. He offers a perspective of forgiveness and spiritual consideration in response to Simon's experience with Karl.

Karl's mother, whom Simon visits after the war, speaks about the past and the impact of her son's choices on their family. She shares her disbelief about the atrocities committed by the Nazis and emphasizes her community's innocence.