Burmese Days

Main Characters and Their Development

• John Flory - the protagonist, a British colonist living in Burma. He experiences an internal conflict between his disdain for the colonial system and the necessity to live within it. Flory seeks friendship with the Burmese and feels isolated among his compatriots. His development is tied to his attempts to find personal happiness and moral satisfaction, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome.
• Dr. Veraswami - a Burmese doctor and Flory's friend. He embodies honesty and professionalism but faces discrimination and prejudice from the British colonists. His friendship with Flory is a crucial part of the plot and underscores the theme of racial and social prejudice.
• Elizabeth Lackersteen - a young woman who comes to Burma in search of a husband. She becomes the object of Flory's romantic interest, but her own prejudices and desire for social status hinder their relationship. Her development illustrates the influence of colonial values on personal relationships and destinies.
• U Po Kyin - a Burmese magistrate seeking power and influence. He uses intrigue and manipulation to achieve his goals, making him an antagonist in the story. His character illustrates corruption and moral decay within the colonial system.