The wealthy, hedonistic, and neglectful patriarch of the Karamazov family. Known for his buffoonery and selfishness, he lives a life of sensual pleasure and has strained, hostile relationships with his adult sons, particularly over money and women.

The youngest brother and novice monk who possesses a gentle, loving nature and deep spiritual faith. He resides at the local monastery under Elder Zosima and acts as a messenger and peacemaker between his dysfunctionally warring family members.

The eldest son and impulsive former soldier who is embroiled in a bitter financial dispute with his father. At the novel's start, he is torn between his engagement to Katerina Ivanovna and his sudden, consuming obsession with Grushenka.

The second son, an intellectual and rationalist who is reserved and aloof after recently returning to town. He is known for his articles on religious questions and his struggle with the concepts of faith, suffering, and morality in a world without God.

Dmitri’s proud and noble fiancée who remains loyal to him despite his erratic behavior and public pursuit of Grushenka. She feels a complex mix of love, duty, and martyrdom toward Dmitri due to a past financial favor he did for her father.

The highly revered spiritual leader at the monastery who serves as Alyosha’s mentor and father figure. He acts as the moral compass of the story, preaching a philosophy of active love and universal forgiveness to counter the family's cynicism.

A beautiful and fiery young woman who is the subject of intense rivalry between Fyodor Pavlovich and his son Dmitri. Scorned by local society, she uses her charm and financial independence to manipulate men while hiding a vulnerable nature.

Fyodor Pavlovich’s sullen and epileptic servant who works as the household cook and is rumored to be his illegitimate son. He harbors a deep resentment toward his position in life and often mimics Ivan’s intellectual cynicism.