Atonement

Main Characters and Their Development

• Briony Tallis - a young Englishwoman aspiring to become a writer. Her life changes drastically after she witnesses a crime and gives false testimony, leading to Robbie's wrongful conviction. Over time, she realizes her mistake and tries to atone for it, which becomes the central theme of her life.
• Cecilia Tallis - Briony's older sister, in love with Robbie Turner. After the incident, their relationship is threatened by Briony's accusations. Cecilia steadfastly supports Robbie despite family pressure and societal prejudices, demonstrating her strength of character and loyalty to her feelings.
• Robbie Turner - the son of a housekeeper living in the Tallis family home. He is intelligent and ambitious, earning an education at Cambridge. His love for Cecilia and future plans are shattered when he is falsely accused of a crime. In the book, he symbolizes the victim of circumstances and societal prejudices.