The Lower Depths

Main Characters and Their Development

• Luka - a wanderer who arrives at the flophouse bringing ideas of mercy and compassion. He tries to help the residents by instilling hope and faith in a better future. However, his departure leaves many in disappointment and hopelessness.
• Satin - a former telegraph operator who lost his job and ended up in the flophouse. He is cynical and skeptical, but under Luka's influence, he begins to ponder the meaning of life and human dignity.
• Nastya - a young woman who dreams of love and romance. She often tells stories of her supposedly happy life, but in reality, she is deeply unhappy and lonely.
• The Baron - a former aristocrat who lost all his wealth and ended up in the flophouse. He tries to maintain the remnants of his dignity, but his past and present plunge him into deep depression.
• The Actor - a former actor suffering from alcoholism who lost his career. Under Luka's influence, he decides to quit drinking and start anew, but ultimately he cannot endure and ends his life in suicide.
• Klesch - a worker who lost his job and is forced to live in the flophouse. He is embittered and disillusioned with life, yet still hopes for a better future.
• Anna - Klesch's wife, who is gravely ill and dying in the flophouse. Her suffering and death become a symbol of life's hopelessness and cruelty.
• Vasilisa - the wife of the flophouse owner, a cruel and domineering woman. She uses her position to manipulate and oppress other residents of the flophouse.
• Pepel - a young thief in love with Natasha, Vasilisa's sister. He dreams of a better life and is willing to change his fate for love, but his attempts end tragically.
• Natasha - Vasilisa's sister, a kind and compassionate girl. She becomes the object of Pepel's love and a symbol of hope for the flophouse residents.