Pierre and Jean · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in Pierre and Jean by Guy de Maupassant.
Pierre Roland
major
Also known as Pierre, Roland, old Roland, father Roland, M'sieu Pierre, Monsieur Pierre, Dr. Pierre Roland
A doctor and the elder son of the Roland family, driven by jealousy and suspicion.
Jean Roland
major
Also known as Jean, Jean Bart, Monsieur Jean, M. Jean, Jean the rich, M'sieu Jean
The younger son, who unexpectedly inherits a fortune and becomes engaged to Mme. Rosémilly.
Mme. Rosémilly
supporting
Also known as Rosémilly, Mme . Rosémilly
A young widow courted by both Pierre and Jean, eventually betrothed to Jean.
Mme. Roland
major
Also known as his mother, Mme, Mme . Roland, Mother
The devoted mother of Pierre and Jean, with a secret past tied to the inheritance.
Old Roland
supporting
Also known as Roland, father Roland, M. Roland, Monsieur Roland
The gruff, retired father of Pierre and Jean, obsessed with fishing and his sons.
Marowsko
minor
Also known as old Marowsko, le père Marowsko
An old Polish chemist and friend of Pierre, who runs a small pharmacy.
Captain Beausire
minor
Also known as Beausire
A sea captain and friend of the Roland family, often dining with them.
Louise
minor
A maid in the Roland household.
M. Maréchal
supporting
Also known as Maréchal
A deceased family friend who left his fortune to Jean, sparking the central conflict.
Maître Lecanu
minor
Also known as Maître
The notary who reads Maréchal's will to the Roland family.
Papagris
minor
A boatman who assists Old Roland with his fishing excursions.
M. Marchand
minor
A local merchant mentioned in passing.
La belle Alphonsine
minor
Also known as Alphonsine
A barmaid or local woman briefly noted in the narrative.
Cristi
minor
A minor character mentioned by name in dialogue.
M. Poulin
minor
A local figure briefly referenced in the story.