Annie Sullivan

Annie Sullivan, an indomitable young Irish woman from Boston, is the "miracle worker" whose resilience and determination transform Helen Keller's world. Orphaned at a young age and having battled partial blindness due to trachoma, Annie's life has been fraught with challenges and loss, including the death of her younger brother, Jimmie, whose voice haunts her throughout her journey. Her upbringing in an asylum and subsequent education at the Perkins Institution for the Blind, where she regained some of her sight through surgeries, equipped her with the skills necessary to teach Helen.

Sent to the Keller household at the age of twenty, Annie encounters skepticism due to her youth and perceived inexperience. Yet, her fiery spirit and unrelenting belief in discipline as a key to learning drive her to treat Helen as an equal. She employs a strict but loving approach, aiming to instill discipline and order in Helen's chaotic world, a method that initially seems harsh to the Kellers but ultimately proves effective. Annie's directness and refusal to be intimidated by Helen's father, Captain Arthur Keller, further demonstrate her strength of character.

Annie's teaching methods are complemented by her ability to connect emotionally with Helen while confronting her own personal demons. Her relationship with Helen allows her to release the guilt over Jimmie's death, transforming her facade of toughness into genuine compassion. This emotional evolution is mirrored in Helen's breakthrough moment when she realizes that words have meaning, a poignant culmination of Annie's relentless efforts.

Her unwavering perseverance and ingenious methods, such as using hand symbols to teach Helen the concept of language, highlight Annie's innovative spirit. The bond she forms with Helen paves the way for both of their redemptions, as Annie promises to love Helen "forever and ever," signifying a new chapter in both their lives.

Helen Keller

Helen Keller, at six years old, is a spirited child who became blind, deaf, and mute after an illness in infancy. Her inability to communicate has turned her into a force of chaos in the Keller home, where her parents, overwhelmed by her condition, resort to indulging her every whim, reinforcing her unruly behavior. Despite these challenges, Helen's intelligence and curiosity shine through her actions, such as when she requests eyes for her doll and cleverly hides the key to Annie's room.

Upon Annie's arrival, Helen is introduced to discipline and structure for the first time. Her initial reaction is physical resistance, as she does not comprehend the intent behind Annie's lessons. Gradually, Helen's innate curiosity and reasoning abilities help her learn the sign alphabet, recognizing the connection between words and objects. This pivotal realization marks the "miracle" of the play, when Helen finally comprehends the concept of language through the symbol of water—a memory from her infancy that resonates with her deeply.

Helen's transformation under Annie's guidance showcases her resilience and determination. Her ability to articulate "water" at the play's climax represents not just the acquisition of language but a newfound ability to connect with the world around her. Helen's journey from chaos to communication exemplifies the potential locked within her, revealing that, despite her disabilities, she possesses an extraordinary spirit capable of overcoming adversity.

Captain Arthur Keller

Captain Arthur Keller, a retired Civil War officer, is the authoritative patriarch of the Keller household, embodying the traditional values and rigid structures of the time. As a newspaper editor in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Arthur is accustomed to commanding respect and obedience, both professionally and at home. His relationship with his son, James, is strained, marked by a lack of emotional connection, which creates tension within the family.

Arthur's skepticism toward Annie Sullivan's ability to teach Helen is initially rooted in her youth and unconventional methods. His difficulty in accepting Annie's assertiveness and refusal to conform to his expectations reflects his struggle with adapting to change. However, as Helen's progress becomes undeniable, Arthur's perspective shifts, revealing a more compassionate side. His transformation is highlighted when he offers Annie his arm upon returning from the garden house, a gesture signifying his acceptance and respect for her.

Despite his occasional outbursts, Arthur's love for Helen is genuine, and his willingness to listen to Kate, Annie, and James ultimately contributes to Helen's success. His journey from skepticism to belief underscores the broader theme of transformation and redemption within the Keller family.

Kate Keller

Kate Keller, Helen's devoted mother, is characterized by her unwavering hope and determination to find a solution for her daughter's disabilities. Her youthful demeanor belies the emotional toll taken by Helen's condition and the challenges of rearing a child who cannot see or hear. Kate's compassion and perseverance are evident in her relentless pursuit of medical and educational help for Helen, despite repeated disappointments.

Although initially apprehensive about Annie Sullivan's unorthodox methods, Kate recognizes the necessity of Annie's approach to instill discipline in Helen. Her advocacy for Annie, especially in the face of Arthur's opposition, demonstrates her strength and commitment to Helen's well-being. Kate's ability to persuade Arthur to keep Annie highlights her understanding of what is truly best for her daughter.

Kate's journey through the play illustrates her evolution from a mother overwhelmed by her daughter's needs to a proactive participant in Helen's miraculous transformation. Her willingness to entrust Helen's education to Annie leads to a significant breakthrough for Helen and a profound change in the family dynamic.

James Keller

James Keller, Arthur's son from a previous marriage, is a young man filled with sarcasm and resentment, largely due to his strained relationship with his father. Feeling overshadowed by the attention given to Helen and the new baby, James often resorts to passive-aggressive remarks and biting wit as a defense mechanism against his perceived neglect.

Annie Sullivan's arrival marks a turning point for James, as her defiance of Arthur's authority inspires him to find his own voice. His courage to challenge Arthur's views and support Annie's methods is instrumental in allowing Annie the freedom to teach Helen effectively. Standing up to his father during a pivotal dinner scene, James gains the respect he yearns for and contributes to the "miracle" moment that changes their family's trajectory.

James's development throughout the play reflects his journey towards maturity and self-assertion, illustrating how Annie's influence extends beyond her work with Helen to affect the entire Keller household.

Jimmie Sullivan

Jimmie Sullivan, Annie's deceased younger brother, is a haunting presence throughout the play, representing Annie's unresolved guilt and emotional turmoil. His voice, echoing in Annie's mind, serves as a reminder of her past failures and motivates her relentless dedication to Helen. The memory of Jimmie compels Annie to push forward against all odds, driven by a subconscious desire for redemption.

As Helen reaches her transformative moment, Annie is finally able to silence Jimmie's voice, symbolizing her release from the chains of her past. This emotional liberation allows Annie to fully embrace her new role in Helen's life and find peace in her own heart, marking a significant personal triumph alongside Helen's miraculous breakthrough.

Aunt Ev

Aunt Ev, Captain Keller's sister, is a traditional Southern woman with a strong sense of family legacy and propriety. Her role as a supportive and concerned aunt to Helen is underscored by her efforts to connect the Kellers with the Perkins Institute, setting the stage for Annie's arrival. Despite her occasionally intrusive nature, Aunt Ev's intentions are rooted in her desire to help Helen.

Though initially skeptical of Annie's methods, Aunt Ev's attitude shifts as she witnesses Helen's progress. Her acceptance of Annie into the household represents a broader acceptance of change and innovation within the family.

Mr. Anagnos

Mr. Anagnos, the headmaster of the Perkins Institution for the Blind, plays a pivotal role in Annie's journey by selecting her for the challenging task of teaching Helen Keller. Described as a "stocky bearded man," Anagnos is both a mentor and a stern figure in Annie's life. He provides her with the opportunity and support she needs to embark on her first professional assignment outside the Perkins Institution.

His faith in Annie's abilities reflects his understanding of her potential to succeed and highlights the importance of mentorship and belief in one's capabilities in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Viney

Viney, the Keller family's African-American servant, maintains a stable and good-humored presence in the household amidst the chaos surrounding Helen's condition. As a caretaker responsible for the daily running of the home, Viney demonstrates competence and affection towards Helen and her siblings. Her interactions with Helen's playmates, Martha and Percy, and her clear fondness for the Keller children underscore her integral role in their lives.

Martha and Percy

Martha and Percy are young African-American children who live near the Kellers and often play with Helen. Their interactions with Helen reveal both amazement and fear at her behavior, highlighting their innocence and curiosity. Percy's involvement in Helen's education, particularly during the time spent in the garden house with Annie, underscores the communal effort involved in Helen's learning journey.