Bel Ami

Main Characters and Their Development

• Georges Duroy, initially a poor but ambitious young man who becomes influential in Paris through intrigue and manipulation, using his romantic connections to climb the social ladder.
• Madeleine Forestier, who begins her story as the wife of Duroy's friend but marries Georges after her husband's death, demonstrating her cunning and ability to maintain influence in political and social circles.
• Clotilde de Marelle, a temporary lover of Duroy, who is initially charmed by his attention but ultimately disillusioned by his lack of principles and ambition.
• Suzanne Walter, a naive young woman who also becomes one of Georges' romantic interests. Her directness and innocence contrast with the cynical and calculating world she enters.