Sula

Main Characters and Their Development

• Sula Peace – The protagonist of the novel, who undergoes significant development. In her childhood, she befriends Nel Wright, and their friendship becomes a central theme of the book. Sula grows up in a chaotic and unstable family, shaping her independent and rebellious nature. As she matures, she leaves her hometown but returns years later, provoking mixed reactions from the residents. Her return and subsequent actions cause conflicts and tension, but also prompt those around her to reevaluate their own lives and values.
• Nel Wright – Sula's best friend, whose life and development are closely intertwined with Sula's. Unlike Sula, Nel seeks stability and traditional values. She marries and starts a family, but her life turns out to be less ideal than she hoped. Her friendship with Sula and subsequent betrayals force Nel to reconsider her views on life and relationships.
• Eva Peace – Sula's grandmother, a strong-willed woman who runs her household with an iron hand. She lost a leg in an accident, but it did not weaken her spirit. Eva plays an important role in Sula's life, exerting significant influence on her.
• Hannah Peace – Sula's mother, who leads a disordered and free life. Her relationships with men and lack of traditional maternal qualities impact Sula's character development.
• Shadrack – A World War I veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. He lives in isolation and creates National Suicide Day, which becomes an important symbol in the novel. His interaction with Sula underscores themes of death and destruction in the book.