It's a Family Affair - We'll Settle It Ourselves

Main Characters and Their Development

• Samson Silych Bolshov — a wealthy merchant and head of the family. At the beginning of the play, he is portrayed as greedy and cunning, willing to engage in any scheme for personal gain. However, his greed and avarice lead to the downfall of his business and loss of fortune.
• Lipochka (Olympiada Samsonovna Bolshova) — the daughter of Samson Silych. She dreams of a high-society life and a profitable marriage. Initially, she is spoiled and capricious, but eventually faces reality and disappointment.
• Lazar Yelizarych Podkhalyuzin — Bolshov's clerk, who is in love with Lipochka. At first, he appears to be a loyal and faithful servant, but gradually reveals his true nature — cunning and deceitful. In the end, he deceives Bolshov and marries Lipochka, becoming the master of his fortune.
• Ustinya Naumovna — a matchmaker who assists Podkhalyuzin in his schemes. She is depicted as a crafty and greedy woman, willing to use any trick for her own benefit.
• Rispolozhensky — a lawyer who helps Bolshov with his affairs. He also turns out to be dishonest and greedy, ready to deceive for money.