The Petty Demon

Main Characters and Their Development

• Ardalion Borisovich Peredonov - the main character, a teacher suffering from paranoia and delusions of persecution. His behavior becomes increasingly strange and aggressive as the plot unfolds, leading to tragic consequences.
• Varvara - Peredonov's companion, who dreams of marrying him. She manipulates Peredonov, fueling his fears and suspicions.
• Sasha Pylnikov - Peredonov's student, who becomes the object of his suspicions and hatred. Peredonov sees him as the embodiment of his fears and complexes.
• Lyudmila Rutilova - a young woman who attracts Peredonov's attention. Her image becomes a symbol of an unattainable ideal for him.
• Pavel Ivanovich - the school principal, who tries to maintain order and discipline but faces Peredonov's madness.