Goodbye, Columbus

Main Characters and Their Development

• Neil Klugman - the protagonist and narrator, a young man from Newark working at a public library. Throughout the novel, he begins a relationship with Brenda Patimkin, which makes him reflect on his place in life and the differences between his social standing and Brenda's.
• Brenda Patimkin - a young woman from a wealthy Jewish family living in the suburbs of Newark. She dates Neil, and their relationship develops against the backdrop of social and cultural differences between their families. Brenda seeks independence but ultimately succumbs to family pressure.
• Mrs. Patimkin - Brenda's mother, who embodies traditional family values and has a significant influence on her daughter's life. She is skeptical of Brenda's relationship with Neil.
• Mr. Patimkin - Brenda's father, a successful businessman who also holds traditional values and seeks to control his children's lives. He supports Brenda but also expects her to meet family expectations.
• Ron Patimkin - Brenda's brother, who plays a secondary role in the novel. He represents the typical young man from a wealthy family, interested in sports and studies.