Cloud Atlas

Main Characters and Their Development

• Adam Ewing - a notary from California traveling across the Pacific Ocean in the 19th century. His encounter with Dr. Henry Goose and the slave Autua profoundly changes his views on life and justice.
• Robert Frobisher - a young bisexual composer striving for recognition in 1930s Europe, writes the 'Cloud Atlas Sextet.' His meeting and relationship with Vyvyan Ayrs play a key role in his life.
• Luisa Rey - a young journalist from 1970s California, uncovers a conspiracy surrounding a nuclear power plant. Her courage and determination help her stand up to powerful adversaries.
• Timothy Cavendish - a publisher from Britain who unexpectedly finds himself in a nursing home, from which he must escape. His story is infused with humor and a quest for freedom.
• Sonmi~451 - a clone in a dystopian future Korea, gaining self-awareness. Her story raises philosophical questions about the soul, freedom, and equality.
• Zachry - a herdsman from a post-apocalyptic future, living in a primitive society. His encounter with members of a more advanced civilization forces him to rethink his views on the world and himself.