The Steel Flea

Main Characters and Their Development

• Lefty - the main character, a talented Tula gunsmith who managed to shoe the English steel flea. Lefty embodies the folk wisdom and skill, despite his simplicity and illiteracy. His development in the book shows how he remains true to his craft and homeland despite all hardships and adversities.
• Emperor Alexander I - the Russian emperor who sends his envoys to England to learn the secrets of English craftsmen. His interest in technical innovations and desire to improve Russian production highlight his progressive views.
• Platov - a Don Cossack who accompanies the Russian craftsmen to England. He is skeptical of foreign achievements and believes in the superiority of Russian craftsmen. His development in the book shows how he gradually acknowledges the talent of Lefty and other Russian craftsmen.
• English craftsmen - a collective image representing the highly developed technical culture of England. They evoke admiration and envy among the Russian characters but ultimately recognize Lefty's craftsmanship.
• Emperor Nicholas I - the Russian emperor who receives Lefty after his return from England. His attitude towards Lefty and his work reflects the complex relationship of authority with folk talents and innovations.