The Nature of a Crime · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in The Nature of a Crime by Joseph Conrad.
Unknown Narrator
major
Also known as myself, yourself, mine, my
The unnamed first-person narrator, likely the central consciousness of the story.
Edward Burden
major
Also known as young Edward Burden, Edward, Burden, young Burden, The good Edward, Poor Burden, obscure Burdens, the Edward Burdens, Edward Burdens
A young man, possibly the narrator's friend or alter ego, central to the narrative.
Miss Averies
supporting
Also known as little Miss Averies, Averies
A woman of interest, likely a romantic or emotional focus for the narrator or Burden.
Robert
minor
A named individual, possibly a friend or acquaintance, with limited but notable presence.
Annie
minor
A named woman, possibly a servant or acquaintance, appearing briefly.
Johnson
minor
A named individual, possibly a colleague or servant, with a minor role.
Zola
minor
Referenced as a literary figure, possibly discussed by characters, but not a scene presence.
Tristan
minor
Mentioned as a legendary figure, likely in a literary or metaphorical context.
Death
minor
Personified concept, referenced metaphorically rather than as an active character.