The Death of Ivan Ilyich

Main Characters and Their Development

• Ivan Ilyich Golovin – the protagonist, a middle-aged judicial official who suddenly falls ill and begins to realize the futility of his life. Through his illness, he undergoes profound inner changes, recognizing his mistakes and achieving spiritual insight before his death.
• Pyotr Ivanovich – a colleague and friend of Ivan Ilyich, who represents a typical member of society indifferent to the suffering of others. He symbolizes the superficiality and selfishness of those around Ivan Ilyich.
• Praskovya Fyodorovna – Ivan Ilyich's wife, who is more concerned with material aspects of life and her own comfort than her husband's suffering. Her attitude towards Ivan Ilyich highlights his loneliness and alienation within his family.
• Gerasim – a young peasant, Ivan Ilyich's servant, who is the only one to show genuine care and compassion for the dying man. His simplicity and kindness contrast with the coldness and selfishness of other characters.
• Lisa – Ivan Ilyich's daughter, who, like her mother, is more preoccupied with her personal life and future marriage than her father's condition. Her attitude towards Ivan Ilyich also underscores his isolation and lack of understanding from his loved ones.