The Little Golden Calf

Main Characters and Their Development

• Ostap Bender - the main character, an adventurer and con artist. At the beginning of the book, he dreams of wealth and an easy life. Throughout the plot, he orchestrates numerous scams to acquire money. His character is revealed as charismatic, intelligent, and resourceful, yet also cynical and ruthless. By the end of the book, he achieves his goal but realizes that money does not bring him happiness.
• Shura Balaganov - one of Ostap Bender's companions, a petty swindler. At the beginning of the book, he is portrayed as a naive and trusting person who is easily influenced by Ostap. Throughout the plot, he learns from Ostap and becomes more cunning and calculating. However, despite this, he remains a loyal and devoted friend.
• Adam Kozlevich - the driver and owner of the car "Antelope Gnu." At the beginning of the book, he is an honest and hardworking man who accidentally gets involved in Ostap's adventures. Throughout the plot, he gradually participates in the scams but maintains his honesty and integrity. His character is revealed as kind and compassionate.
• Alexander Ivanovich Koreiko - the underground millionaire whom Ostap Bender tries to blackmail. At the beginning of the book, he is portrayed as a modest and inconspicuous person leading a double life. Throughout the plot, his greed and cowardice are revealed. By the end of the book, he loses all his money and is left with nothing.