Bigger Thomas - The protagonist, a young African American man living in poverty on Chicago's South Side. He is impulsive, angry, and trapped by the systemic racism and socioeconomic conditions of his environment. His actions, including the accidental killing of Mary Dalton, drive the plot.

Mary Dalton - The daughter of the wealthy Dalton family, for whom Bigger works as a chauffeur. She is a liberal, somewhat naive white woman who tries to befriend Bigger, but her unintended condescension contributes to the tragic events that unfold.

Mr. Henry Dalton - Mary’s father, a rich white landlord who owns the rundown tenement where Bigger’s family lives. He represents the hypocritical benevolence of privileged whites who profit from racial inequality.

Mrs. Dalton - Mr. Dalton’s blind wife, whose disability symbolizes the willful ignorance of white society to the plight of African Americans. Her presence in a key scene indirectly leads to Bigger’s panic and Mary’s death.

Bessie Mears - Bigger’s girlfriend, a hardworking woman who turns to alcohol to cope with her struggles. She becomes entangled in Bigger’s actions after Mary’s death.

Jan Erlone - Mary’s communist boyfriend, who tries to connect with Bigger as an ally against oppression. His idealism contrasts with Bigger’s cynicism.

Buckley - The racist, aggressive State’s Attorney who prosecutes Bigger. He embodies the punitive arm of a prejudiced society.

Boris Max - A Jewish lawyer affiliated with the Communist Party who defends Bigger in court. He argues that Bigger’s actions are a product of systemic racism and poverty, though his defense doesn’t save Bigger.

Buddy Thomas - Bigger’s younger brother, who looks up to him but represents a potential for a different path.

Vera Thomas - Bigger’s younger sister, a timid and fearful girl who reflects the vulnerability of his family.

Mrs. Thomas - Bigger’s mother, a religious woman struggling to hold her family together in dire circumstances. She pleads with Bigger to conform to societal expectations.

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