# The Shadow Line — Character guide

> Key figures in The Shadow Line by Joseph Conrad.

- [The Narrator](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/narrator.md): The unnamed first-person narrator, a young ship's captain recounting his first command.
- [Mr. Burns](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/mr_burns.md): The chief mate of the narrator's ship, who falls gravely ill during the voyage.
- [Ransome](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/ransome.md): The ship's steward, a reliable and calm presence who aids the narrator.
- [Captain Giles](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/captain_giles.md): An experienced and wise sea captain who advises the narrator before his voyage.
- [Frenchy](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/frenchy.md): A sailor who dies early in the story, prompting the narrator's promotion.
- [Neptune](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/neptune.md): The ship's cat, a minor but recurring presence aboard the vessel.
- [Gambril](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/gambril.md): A sickly sailor who becomes ill during the voyage, adding to the crew's troubles.
- [Hamilton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/hamilton.md): A fellow captain encountered in port, who discusses the narrator's new command.
- [Captain Ellis](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/captain_ellis.md): A port official who appoints the narrator as captain of the ship.
- [Kent](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/kent.md): A minor character mentioned in the officers' quarters, likely a previous captain.
- [Chief Steward](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/chief_steward.md): The ship's chief steward, who assists with supplies and crew management.
- [Head Shipping-Master](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/head_shipping_master.md): A port official involved in the narrator's appointment as captain.
- [The Doctor](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters/the_doctor.md): A physician who treats the sick crew members during the voyage.

HTML index: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shadow_line_se/characters