The Gooseberries: characters

Ivan, our protagonist, decides to study veterinary, this shows us that he wants to display all his qualities. He's not easily satisfied; he has a free spirit, this is obvious in his actions; for example while washing himself he also enjoys swimming. Washing is not just a necessity for him. He never wants to be monotonous as he considers it as laziness; therefore he has a round character. He's not just round, he changes during the hours in Nikolay 's house. He doesn't want to be anymore happy as he used to. He's oppressed by the peace. He doesn't have the same idea about happiness. He thinks that the purpose of life is something much more greater, like doing good.

Nikolay seeks his happiness in stability. He limits his joy of life to a farm. He has a fixed framework about happiness: house for the family, servants' quarters, kitchen garden and gooseberry bushes. He never enjoys his life as he married an ugly widow just because of her wealth and when she died of poverty, he didn't blame himself. He just lives frugally. We can say that he has a flat character. Nikolay faces a great change. He transfers to a master from a timid government officer. He now refers to himself a nobleman. So he's dynamic.

Alehin will have a future like Nikolay. Hi is a landowner, but he deprives him of even a simple bath.