The Story of an Unknown Man

Main Characters and Their Development

• The Unknown Man (narrator) — the protagonist who works as a servant in Orlov's household. He is a revolutionary hiding under an assumed name. Throughout the narrative, he experiences an internal conflict between his ideals and reality.
• Orlov — the son of a high-ranking official, for whom the narrator works. He is cynical, indifferent to those around him, and leads a leisurely lifestyle. His attitude towards life and people is gradually revealed through his interactions with other characters.
• Zinaida Fyodorovna — Orlov's mistress, who also lives in his house. She dreams of a better life and feels disillusioned with Orlov. Her character and emotions develop as she becomes aware of her dependence and the futility of her hopes.