Childhood

Main Characters and Their Development

• Alyosha Peshkov — the main character, a boy through whose eyes the reader sees the events of the book. Initially, he appears as a naive and curious child, but as the story unfolds, he encounters the cruelty and injustice of the adult world, which shapes his character and worldview.
• Grandmother Akulina Ivanovna — a kind and wise woman who has a great influence on Alyosha. She teaches him compassion, love, and patience, becoming a source of warmth and support for him.
• Grandfather Kashirin — a harsh and cruel man who often displays rudeness and cruelty towards others, including Alyosha. His behavior and attitude towards life serve as a contrast to the grandmother's kindness.
• Alyosha's Mother — a woman who suffers from a difficult life and complex relationships with her husband. Her fate and experiences deeply affect Alyosha, shaping his understanding of women's roles and family relationships.
• Yakov — Alyosha's uncle, a man with a difficult character who often conflicts with other family members. His behavior and actions also influence Alyosha's worldview.