Marya (Masha) Alexandrovna

Marya (Masha) Alexandrovna, the narrator, is a young noblewoman who shares her life journey from seventeen to her early twenties, specifically four or five years after marriage. Initially modest and intelligent, she lives at the Pokrovskoe family estate with her sister and governess. Unaware of her captivating beauty, she falls in love with her legal guardian, Sergey Mikhaylych, a considerably older man. Their relationship blossoms into marriage, yet residing at his estate, Nikolskoe, soon feels restrictive for her. A trip to St. Petersburg exposes her to high society, awakening her to her own allure and the vanities of the city. Later, in Baden, Masha faces a moral trial, nearly succumbing to an affair with an attractive foreigner. Shocked by this near-betrayal, she returns to her marriage, which she never intended to jeopardize so severely. Although their relationship evolves, the couple finds contentment through the addition of two children.

In a groundbreaking literary endeavor, Tolstoy crafts Masha's first-person narrative, capturing the nuanced emotions of a young woman on the brink of adulthood. Her story delves into the complexities of balancing the care for her younger sister with her own youthful dreams, revealing profound psychological insight. However, the authenticity is occasionally marred by the improbability of her precise recollections, a common pitfall in reminiscent narratives. Additionally, the narrative’s focus on Masha's perspective means that Sergey Mikhaylych's character is discerned only through her eyes.

While Masha's evolution spans romantic fervor, exploration, and pragmatic marital contentment, the depiction of her motherhood is less convincing. Tolstoy’s limited parenting experience at the time affects the depth with which these experiences are portrayed. Moreover, the narrative implies that the superficial allure of high society somewhat tarnishes her maternal instincts.

Sergey Mikhaylych

Sergey Mikhaylych is depicted as a noble landowner—serious, responsible, and thirty-six at the time of his engagement to Masha. A tall and robust figure, he exhibits a perfectionist nature. He is cognizant of the difficulties his young wife might encounter, thus permitting her the freedom to learn and grow, fostering her development within the marriage. This freedom, however, also underscores the inherent control exercised by an elder husband over a younger wife. Despite Masha's flirtations, Sergey forgives her, aware that the waning of romantic idealism does not herald the demise of their marriage.

Sergey is portrayed as having a strong moral compass and a balanced temperament. He carefully chooses not to exploit his status as Masha’s guardian and ponders the implications of their marriage given the age and experience gap. As the story progresses, Sergey assumes a more passive role, allowing Masha to face the seductions and shallowness of high society without his guidance. Though she reproaches him for his seeming detachment, Sergey believes in the value of personal discovery.

Katerina (Katya) Karlovna

Katerina (Katya) Karlovna, the elderly governess, plays a pivotal role in the upbringing of Masha and Sonya. Her continued presence in the Nikolskoe household after Masha’s marriage signifies the stability and continuity she provides in their lives, anchoring them even as they encounter change and growth.

An Italian marquis

The Italian marquis, a visitor at the Baden resort, stands out with his bold, handsome, and passionate demeanor combined with a coarse, animalistic nature. His attraction to Masha nearly leads to an affair, illustrating the temptations and moral dilemmas she faces within the glamorous and morally ambiguous high society.

Tatyana Semyonovna

Tatyana Semyonovna, Sergey’s mother, plays a subtle yet significant role in the familial dynamic. Her death, which occurs about two years post Masha’s marriage, heralds a newfound independence for Masha, contributing significantly to her personal development and autonomy within the marriage.

Sonya

Sonya, Masha’s younger sister, remains a constant presence throughout the narrative. Her unwavering companionship underscores the enduring familial bonds that offer support and continuity amidst Masha's evolving personal life and experiences.