The Green Mile

Main Characters and Their Development

• Paul Edgecombe — the head of the death row block at Cold Mountain Penitentiary. At the beginning of the book, he is portrayed as a man who strictly follows rules and laws. However, as the story unfolds, Paul begins to question the justice of the system, especially after meeting John Coffey. His internal conflict and moral dilemmas become central to his development.
• John Coffey — a giant African American man convicted of murdering two girls. Though he appears intimidating, he actually possesses a kind heart and supernatural healing abilities. His development involves revealing his true nature and innocence, which profoundly changes the perceptions of other characters.
• Eduard Delacroix — a French inmate convicted of murder. He becomes a close friend to some of the guards and inmates. His development is tied to his relationship with his pet mouse, Mr. Jingles, and his attempts to atone for his sins before his execution.
• Percy Wetmore — a cruel and sadistic guard who abuses his power. His development shows how his cruelty and impunity lead to tragic consequences. Ultimately, his actions result in his own downfall.
• Brutus Howell — one of the death row guards known for his fairness and kindness. He supports Paul and helps him in difficult situations. His development is connected to his fight for justice and moral principles.
• William Wharton — a violent and unpredictable inmate who causes chaos in the prison. His development highlights the challenges the guards face in maintaining order and the impact of his actions on the story.