Character guide

Boris Trigorin

major

Also known as Trigorin, Boris Alexeyevitch

A famous writer who becomes entangled in a love triangle with Nina and Arkadina.

Nina Zaretchny

major

Also known as Nina, Nina Mihailovna

A young woman who dreams of becoming an actress and loves Treplev.

Irina Arkadina

major

Also known as Madame Arkadin, Arkadina, Irina Nikolayevna

A celebrated actress, Treplev's mother, and Trigorin's lover.

Konstantin Treplev

major

Also known as Treplev, Konstantin, Kostya

A sensitive young playwright seeking artistic and personal validation.

Pyotr Sorin

supporting

Also known as Sorin, Pyotr Nikolayevitch

Treplev's uncle, a retired civil councillor living on his estate.

Masha

supporting

Also known as Marya Ilyinishna

Shamraev's daughter, who pines for Treplev and later marries Medvedenko.

Semyon Medvedenko

supporting

Also known as Medvedenko, Semyon

A poor schoolteacher in love with Masha.

Yevgeny Dorn

supporting

Also known as Dorn, Yevgeny Sergeitch

The local doctor, a confidant to the characters.

Polina Andreyevna

supporting

Also known as Polina

Shamraev's wife, who has a romantic interest in Dorn.

Ilya Shamraev

supporting

Also known as Shamraev

The estate manager, gruff and practical.

Yakov

minor

A workman on the estate, assisting with the play.

Silva

minor

A minor character, possibly a servant or visitor.