Below are the most prominent characters in Burger’s Daughter by Nadine Gordimer:

Rosa is 26 years old and is grieving the recent loss of her father. Rosa’s family were all part of the anti-apartheid movement. Her parents taught her generosity of spirit and were consistently helping those in need. She is a physiotherapist and lives in Johannesburg, Nice, and London. She eventually becomes an activist herself and is arrested for supporting the African National Congress and the South African Communist Party.

Lionel Burger was Rosa’s father. He passes away at the start of the story while he is in prison serving a life sentence for treason. He was a White Afrikaner anti-apartheid activist. He was also a member of the South African Communist Party.

Cathy Burger was Rosa’s mother. She died when Rosa was only 14 years old. She was also a member of the South African Communist Party.

Bassie is a young black boy the Burgers adopted after his father was imprisoned. He is Rosa’s brother. At the age of nine Rosa’s parents were arrested and the children were sent to separate places. They lose touch for some time until Rosa sees him at a political rally many years later. Bassie tells Rosa that her father did not die any differently than many other Black fathers. This greatly upsets her.

Conrad is a student who grows close to Rosa during her father’s trial. Rosa lives with him for some time.

Katya is Rosa’s father’s first wife. Rosa lives with her Nice.

Bernard Chabalier is from Paris and dates Rosa. He tries to convince her to move to Paris with him. However, after meeting Bassie again and hearing his harsh words, Rosa chooses to return home.