Tevye the Dairyman

Main Characters and Their Development

• Tevye the Dairyman - the main character of the book, a Jewish dairyman living in a small village. He is known for his wit, philosophical outlook on life, and ability to find a way out of difficult situations. Tevye faces many challenges, including poverty and family issues, but maintains optimism and faith in the future. His character develops through interactions with his daughters and the world around him, portraying him as a caring father and wise man.
• Golde - Tevye's wife, who supports him and takes care of the family. She is more practical and down-to-earth than Tevye and often serves as the voice of reason in their relationship. Her character is revealed through her care for their daughters and her efforts to provide for the family.
• Tevye's Daughters - each has her own unique story and character. Tzeitel, the eldest daughter, marries for love despite her chosen one's poverty. Hodel, the second daughter, chooses a revolutionary and leaves with him, sacrificing comfort for ideals. Chava, the third daughter, falls in love with a Russian and converts to Christianity, which becomes a great trial for Tevye. Each daughter symbolizes societal changes and new challenges to the traditional way of life.