The Ugly Duckling

Main Characters and Their Development

• The Ugly Duckling: The main character of the story, who hatches from an egg and immediately faces mockery and disdain due to his unattractive appearance. He goes through many trials and hardships until he transforms into a beautiful swan, realizing his true nature and beauty.
• Mother Duck: A caring and loving mother who, despite her duckling's appearance, tries to protect him and find him a place in the world. She symbolizes maternal love and patience.
• Other Ducklings: The main character's brothers and sisters, who initially mock and reject him because of his unattractive appearance. They represent societal opinion and prejudice.
• Old Woman: A woman who finds the duckling and takes him in, hoping he will be useful. However, when the duckling does not meet her expectations, she also rejects him.
• Wild Geese: A group of wild geese the duckling encounters during his travels. They accept him into their company but soon perish from hunters' shots, illustrating the dangers the duckling faces.
• Swans: Beautiful birds the duckling meets at the end of his story. They accept him into their flock, and he finally realizes his true nature and beauty, becoming one of them.