Heart of a Dog

Main Characters and Their Development

• Professor Preobrazhensky — a distinguished surgeon who conducts an experiment to transplant a human's pituitary gland and testicles into a dog. Through the experiment, he transforms the stray dog Sharik into a human, Sharikov. Preobrazhensky is a man of firm beliefs and principles, opposing revolutionary changes in society and valuing order and discipline.
• Sharikov (Sharik) — a stray dog whom Professor Preobrazhensky transforms into a human. Initially, he was a loyal and grateful dog, but after the operation, he becomes a rude, uncultured, and aggressive person. Sharikov embodies the degradation and destruction of human nature under the influence of base instincts.
• Dr. Bormenthal — Professor Preobrazhensky's assistant, who helps him conduct the experiment. He is devoted to his mentor and supports him in all endeavors. Bormenthal also experiences an internal conflict, witnessing Sharikov's degradation and realizing the consequences of the experiment.
• Zina — Professor Preobrazhensky's housemaid. She carries out all tasks and maintains order in the house. Zina is a model of loyalty and diligence, and she also witnesses all the events occurring in the household.
• Darya Petrovna — Professor Preobrazhensky's housekeeper. She takes care of the household and helps maintain order in the house. Darya Petrovna represents the old intelligentsia, striving to preserve traditions and values amidst new revolutionary changes.