A Simple Heart

Main Characters and Their Development

• Félicité Baratin — the main character, a simple and kind-hearted maid who dedicates her life to serving others. She experiences many losses and disappointments but retains her kindness and loyalty. Her life is filled with challenges, yet she finds solace in her faith and love for those around her.
• Madame Aubain — Félicité's employer, a widow with two children. She is strict and demanding but cares for her maid deep down. Their relationship evolves from formal to more warm and trusting.
• Virginie Aubain — Madame Aubain's daughter, to whom Félicité becomes attached as if she were her own child. Her death is one of the most devastating blows to Félicité.
• Victor — Félicité's nephew, whom she loves dearly. His death at sea is another tragic event in Félicité's life.
• Loulou — a parrot given to Félicité as a gift. He becomes a symbol of comfort and spiritual connection with her departed loved ones.