Character guide

Niels Lyhne

major

Also known as Niels, Lyhne, Niels Klim

The protagonist, a young man searching for meaning in life, love, and art.

Fennimore

major

Also known as Poor Fennimore, Dearest Fennimore

A passionate woman who becomes entangled in a tragic love affair with Niels.

Erik Refstrup

supporting

Also known as Erik

Niels's friend and rival, a painter married to Fennimore.

Mrs. Boye

supporting

Also known as Mrs. Boye Philistine

A sophisticated older woman who introduces Niels to intellectual circles.

Dr. Hjerrild

supporting

Also known as Hjerrild

A physician and friend who offers Niels counsel and companionship.

Gerda

supporting

Also known as little Gerda

Niels's young cousin, a gentle and innocent presence in his life.

Bigum

supporting

Also known as Mr. Bigum

A quirky, loquacious schoolmaster who befriends Niels.

Bartholine

supporting

Niels's aunt, a stern and religious woman who influences his childhood.

Frithjof

minor

Also known as Frithjof Petersen, Mr. Frithjof Petersen

A painter and friend of Niels, part of the artistic milieu.

Young Lyhne of Lønborggård

minor

Also known as Young Lyhne, Lønborggård

Niels's cousin, a landowner and foil to Niels's artistic nature.

Edele Lyhne

supporting

Also known as Edele, Edele Beatrice, Little Edele, Miss Edele

Niels's cousin and first love, a beautiful but fragile young woman.

Madame Odéro

minor

An eccentric and wealthy widow who hosts salons.

J. P. Jacobsen

minor

Also known as Jacobsen

The author, occasionally referenced as a narrative voice.

Consul Claudi

minor

Also known as the Consul

A wealthy merchant and father of Gerda.

Mrs. Claudi

minor

Consul Claudi's wife, a socialite.

Miss Lyhne

minor

Niels's unmarried aunt, a minor relative.

Berendt Claudi

minor

Also known as Berendt Berendtsen Claudi, the present Claudi

A younger relative of Consul Claudi, a businessman.

Mr. Boye

minor

Mrs. Boye's husband, a minor figure in social scenes.

Helge

minor

Also known as King Helge

A legendary Norse king mentioned in Niels's childhood stories.

The Neergaards

minor

Also known as the old Councillor Neergaards

A family who host social gatherings Niels attends.

Trine

minor

Also known as poor Trine

A servant in the Lyhne household.

Councillor Skinnerup

minor

Also known as Skinnerup

A local official and acquaintance of the Lyhne family.