Elena Kirillovna

Glasha

Elena Kirillovna and Glasha are likely sisters or close relatives, sharing a bond of domestic intimacy.

Glasha

Elena Kirillovna and Glasha are likely sisters or close relatives, sharing a bond of domestic intimacy.

Glasha

Elena Kirillovna and Glasha are likely sisters or close relatives, sharing a bond of domestic intimacy.

I

Borya's grandmother, living in the old house.

X

The old mistress lies awake in bed, waiting impatiently for her coffee, her dry yellow face and black hair described in detail.

XI

Awakens early, complains about her sleep and Glasha's service, speaks with a capricious tone.

XII

The old lady lies in bed, recalling her grandson Borya and waiting for his return.

XIII

Elena Kirillovna is served coffee by Glasha, carefully prepares her biscuit, and rests after her meal.

XIV

Grumbles about her lot while envying Glasha's youth and strength, yet clings to her gentlewoman's habits.

XVI

Kneels and prays before an icon, reciting habitual prayers while suppressing her personal hopes and fears, briefly thinking of Borya.

XVII

Looks out the window, returns from a dark abstract world to bright impressions, dresses with Glasha's help, and prepares for the day.

XVIII

The old mistress of the house, she inspects the breakfast table and the yard with a severe domestic concern, then goes for her morning stroll.

XIX

Waits patiently for her grandson on a bench by the road, dozing and dreaming of his voice.

XX

The grandmother walking along the road, filled with joy and hope for Borya's return.

XXI

Awakens from a drowse and experiences a profound sense of hopelessness and foreboding as she observes the indifferent, triumphant sun and the grey dust on the road.

XXII

Anxiously asks about Natasha and Sofia Alexandrovna, lingers by the gate hoping for Borya's arrival, then returns to the house.

XXIX

Reads Russkiya Vedomosti, slowly tearing the wrapper and scanning the lines.

The Morning Paper

Reads calmly at first, then weeps silently as the nurse delivers the grim news.

XXXI

Descends to the garden and weeps by the pond.

LI

Arrives with Sofia Alexandrovna, whispers tearfully in response to Sofia's grief.

LII

Elena Kirillovna whispers in agreement that it would be terrible to die alone, sharing in the moment of grief.

LIII

Trips behind the others, weeping a few tears onto her black cloak.

LIV

Replies to the mother's calls, confirming that Borya will not come and that there is no Borya.

X

Volodya's mother, who confiscates the booklet and leaves without a word.

XI

Volodya's mother; she opens the shadow book, becomes lost in thought, and experiences fear and fascination while reproducing the shadows.

XXVII

Volodya's mother, who advises him to stop his nightly shadow play and proposes a compromise.

XXXI

Volodya's mother, participates in the shadow play with a mix of sorrow and joy.

Hide and Seek

Elena Kirillovna is Lelechka's mother, participating in the game of hide and seek, representing the protective yet complex maternal bond.