The Golovlyov Family

Main Characters and Their Development

• Porfiry Vladimirovich Golovlyov (Judas) - the main character of the novel, a hypocritical and cruel man who uses religion and moral principles to justify his actions. His hypocrisy and cruelty lead to the destruction of his family and his own downfall.
• Arkady Vladimirovich Golovlyov - Porfiry's brother, who leads a debauched lifestyle and eventually dies from drunkenness and recklessness.
• Anna Petrovna Golovlyova (Madame Golovlyova) - the mother of Porfiry and Arkady, a domineering and cruel woman who controls her sons and runs the household with an iron fist. Her cruelty and greed lead to tragic consequences for the entire family.
• Stepan Vladimirovich Golovlyov (Stepka the Fool) - the youngest brother of Porfiry and Arkady, whom their mother sends to the army to get rid of him. He returns home sick and dies in poverty.
• Pavel Vladimirovich Golovlyov - Porfiry's brother, who leaves home to start a new life but eventually returns and dies in despair.
• Evpraksia (Prakseyushka) - a servant in the Golovlyov household who becomes a victim of Porfiry's cruelty and hypocrisy.