The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories · Character
Simon Nefyórdof
A soldier who has sinned his way through life and now, in a moment of need, finds himself tested by a stranger's request.
major
Also known as Simon, Simon the Soldier
First appearance: What Men Live By
As a major figure in The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories, Simon Nefyórdof is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
The poor shoemaker who finds the angel Michael freezing by a shrine.
Simon Nefyórdof appears in The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories as major figure.
Simon Nefyórdof first appears in 0039 what men live by.
In What Men Live By: The poor shoemaker who finds the angel Michael freezing by a shrine. His act of compassion, giving his own coat, is the first demonstration of love that saves Michael.
Later, in The Story of Iván the Fool: Prospered by creating a large army with advanced weapons, conquering a neighbor. His ambition leads him to attack the King of India, who defeats him with superior technology, causing Simon to lose his kingdom.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
Character Web
37 connectionsA slice of how Simon Nefyórdof sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Peasants and Masters
- Moral Seekers and Tempters
- Diverse Character Assortment
- Artists and Patrons
+32 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional peak is Esarhaddon's shocking, direct confrontation with the truth that he and his victim are on…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Simon Nefyórdof appears across 2 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Simon Nefyórdof unlock in the free preview.
See Simon Nefyórdof in What Men Live By