The Duel · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in The Duel by Anton Chekhov.
Ivan Andreitch Laevsky
major
Also known as Laevsky, Ivan Andreitch, Mr. Laevsky, Vanya Laevsky, Vanya
A young intellectual in a troubled relationship, central to the story's conflict and duel.
Nadyezhda Fyodorovna
major
Also known as Fyodorovna
Laevsky's mistress, caught in a love triangle and social scrutiny.
Samoylenko
supporting
Also known as Dr. Samoylenko
A military doctor and friend to Laevsky, mediating between the main characters.
Von Koren
major
Also known as Von Koren gaily, Von Koren's
A zoologist and Laevsky's antagonist, who challenges him to a duel.
Marya Konstantinovna
supporting
Also known as Marya Konstantinovna Bityugov, Bityugov
A local married woman who gossips and observes the main characters.
Kirilin
supporting
Also known as VII Kirilin
A military officer involved in a subplot with Nadyezhda Fyodorovna.
Atchmianov
minor
Also known as the young Atchmianov, handsome young Atchmianov
A young man who pursues Nadyezhda Fyodorovna.
Kerbalay
minor
Also known as the Tatar Kerbalay, Tatar
A local Tatar who runs a tavern or serves the community.
Sheshkovsky
minor
A minor character mentioned in the social circle.
Alexandr Daviditch
minor
A local acquaintance of the main characters.
Nikodim Alexandritch
minor
A minor character in the town's social scene.
Katya
minor
A young girl, possibly a relative or servant, with limited presence.
Olga
minor
A female character mentioned briefly in the narrative.
Nikolay Vassilitch
minor
A minor character in the story's background.
Kostya
minor
A young boy or servant with a few mentions.
Ustimovitch
minor
A doctor or official who appears briefly.
Boyko
minor
A minor character, possibly a servant or officer.
