Stranger in a Strange Land

Main Characters and Their Development

• Valentine Michael Smith - the protagonist, a man raised by Martians. As the story progresses, he evolves from a naive youth unfamiliar with Earth customs to a spiritual leader, founding a new religion and philosophy that unites human and Martian values.
• Jubal Harshaw - a writer, doctor, and lawyer who becomes Michael's mentor and protector. He helps Michael adapt to life on Earth and understand its complex social and political structures.
• Jill Boardman - a nurse who rescues Michael from a hospital and becomes his friend and ally. She helps him acclimate to Earth and eventually becomes his lover and devoted supporter.
• Ben Caxton - a journalist and friend of Jill, initially skeptical of Michael but later becomes his supporter and helps spread his ideas.
• Patricia 'Patty' Pereira - one of Michael's first followers, who embraces his philosophy and becomes an important figure in his movement.