Cousin Bette

Main Characters and Their Development

• Cousin Bette (Lisbeth Fischer) - the main character of the novel, a poor and envious woman who has always felt overshadowed by her more successful cousin, Adeline Hulot. Bette decides to take revenge on her family for their neglect and begins weaving intrigues to destroy their lives. Her character evolves from a resentful and envious woman to a cunning and vengeful figure who stops at nothing to achieve her goals.
• Baron Hulot - Adeline Hulot's husband, a man who succumbs to his weaknesses and becomes a victim of his own vices. His character illustrates the fall from a respected military man to someone who destroys his family due to his romantic escapades and financial troubles.
• Adeline Hulot - Bette's cousin, a beautiful and kind-hearted woman who suffers from her husband's infidelity and Bette's schemes. Her character embodies patience and nobility, but also the tragic fate of a woman whose life is shattered by the actions of those around her.
• Hortense Hulot - the daughter of Adeline and Baron Hulot, a young and naive girl who becomes a pawn in Bette's intrigues. Her character develops from an innocent girl to a woman forced to fight for her happiness in challenging circumstances.
• Valérie Marneffe - the mistress of Baron Hulot and one of the main antagonists of the novel. She uses her allure and cunning to manipulate men and exploit them for her gain. Her character demonstrates ruthlessness and selfishness, leading to her own downfall.