The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Main Characters and Their Development

• Coriolanus Snow - the main character of the book, a young man from an impoverished aristocratic family. At the beginning of the book, he is ambitious and seeks to restore his family's former glory. As the plot develops, Coriolanus faces moral dilemmas and begins to exhibit cruelty and manipulation, ultimately leading him to become the dark and ruthless leader known in the main Hunger Games trilogy.
• Lucy Gray Baird - a girl from District 12, a participant in the 10th Hunger Games. She is a talented singer and charismatic personality, which helps her win the sympathy of viewers and allies. Lucy Gray becomes the object of Coriolanus's affection, and their relationship plays a key role in his development. Her independence and desire for freedom contrast with Snow's ambitions.
• Sejanus Plinth - a friend and classmate of Coriolanus, the son of a wealthy industrialist from District 2. He is disgusted by the Capitol and its brutal methods of governance. Sejanus becomes a symbol of resistance and a moral compass for Coriolanus, but their friendship is tested by differences in beliefs and actions.
• Dr. Gaul - Coriolanus's mentor, the leading Gamemaker of the Hunger Games. She plays a crucial role in shaping Snow's worldview, teaching him cruelty and manipulation. Her methods and philosophy significantly influence his transformation into a ruthless leader.