A Common Story

Main Characters and Their Development

• Alexander Aduyev — the main character of the novel, a young man full of romantic illusions and dreams. At the beginning of the book, he arrives in St. Petersburg from the provinces, hoping for success and happiness. Gradually, he encounters harsh realities, his dreams crumble, and he becomes more pragmatic and cynical.
• Pyotr Ivanovich Aduyev — Alexander's uncle, a successful and experienced St. Petersburg official. In contrast to his nephew, he is a realist and pragmatist. Pyotr Ivanovich tries to guide Alexander towards reason and practicality, but their views on life often clash.
• Anna Pavlovna Aduyeva — Alexander's mother, a loving and caring woman who remains in the provinces. She supports her son's endeavors and worries about his fate.
• Nadezhda Alexandrovna Lyudmila — Alexander's beloved, a beautiful and intelligent woman. Initially, she reciprocates his feelings, but later becomes disillusioned with him and marries another, which is one of the blows to Alexander.