Gone with the Wind

Main Characters and Their Development

• Scarlett O'Hara - initially a capricious and selfish Southern belle, she evolves into a strong and determined woman, willing to do anything to save her family plantation, Tara, and her loved ones.
• Rhett Butler - a charismatic and free-spirited man, a gambler and an unrivaled womanizer. A contrast to the morals of the time, he falls in love with Scarlett and faces many trials on the path to their happy family life.
• Ashley Wilkes - the epitome of a noble knight, a gentleman, and plantation owner. The object of Scarlett's adoration, yet his heart belongs to his cousin, Melanie.
• Melanie Hamilton - Ashley's wife, a paragon of kindness and loyalty. Her selfless love and support help the characters endure the hardships of wartime and post-war periods.