The Nun

Main Characters and Their Development

• Suzanne Simonin — the protagonist of the novel, a young girl whose parents send her to a convent against her will. She endures numerous trials, facing cruelty and injustice. Suzanne fights for her freedom and the right to live independently, showing resilience and courage.
• Mother Sainte-Eutrope — the prioress of the first convent Suzanne enters. She is portrayed as a kind-hearted and caring woman who supports Suzanne and tries to ease her suffering.
• Mother Sainte-Christine — the prioress of the second convent, where Suzanne encounters cruelty and tyranny. She is the antagonist, embodying cruelty and abuse of power.
• Mother Sainte-Laurent — the prioress of the third convent, where Suzanne finds temporary refuge. She is depicted as a more gentle and understanding figure, yet unable to fully protect Suzanne from the surrounding injustice.