The Talented Mr. Ripley

Main Characters and Their Development

• Tom Ripley - the main character, a young man with unstable morals and a strong desire to improve his life. At the beginning of the book, he lives in New York and faces financial difficulties. When offered the chance by Dickie Greenleaf's father to go to Italy to bring his son home, Tom sees it as an opportunity to change his fate. As the plot unfolds, Tom commits murder and assumes Dickie's identity, demonstrating his capacity for manipulation and deceit. His character evolves from an insecure and poor young man to a cold and calculating criminal.
• Dickie Greenleaf - a young and attractive American living in Italy. He enjoys life, traveling and spending time with friends. Dickie is unaware that his carefree lifestyle and friendliness attract Tom's attention. His character does not undergo significant changes, as he becomes a victim of Tom.
• Marge Sherwood - Dickie's girlfriend and love interest. She lives in Italy and shares his lifestyle. Marge suspects that Tom is not who he claims to be and begins to doubt his intentions after Dickie's disappearance. Her character shows loyalty and love for Dickie, as well as intuition and wariness towards Tom.
• Herbert Greenleaf - Dickie's father, who hires Tom to bring his son home. He trusts Tom and is unaware of his true intentions. His character remains unchanged throughout the book, representing a trusting and caring parent.