Gino Carella

Philip Herriton

Gino and Philip are antagonists locked in a cultural and personal conflict over Lilia and her child, marked by hostility and grudging respect.

Lilia Theobald

Gino and Lilia have a passionate but ill-fated marriage, driven by physical attraction and cultural misunderstanding, ending in Lilia's unhappiness.

Caroline Abbott

Caroline becomes emotionally entangled with Gino, oscillating between maternal concern for his child and a troubling, obsessive attraction.

Spiridione

Gino and Spiridione are close friends and business associates, with Spiridione acting as Gino's loyal confidant and helper.

Harriet Herriton

Gino and Harriet are bitter enemies, with Harriet viewing him as a barbarian and Gino resenting her meddling in his family.

Mrs. Herriton

Gino and Mrs. Herriton are adversaries, with Mrs. Herriton despising him for marrying Lilia and for his Italian peasant background.

Lilia Theobald

Gino and Lilia have a passionate but ill-fated marriage, driven by physical attraction and cultural misunderstanding, ending in Lilia's unhappiness.

Philip Herriton

Gino and Philip are antagonists locked in a cultural and personal conflict over Lilia and her child, marked by hostility and grudging respect.

Caroline Abbott

Caroline becomes emotionally entangled with Gino, oscillating between maternal concern for his child and a troubling, obsessive attraction.

Caroline Abbott

Caroline becomes emotionally entangled with Gino, oscillating between maternal concern for his child and a troubling, obsessive attraction.

Philip Herriton

Gino and Philip are antagonists locked in a cultural and personal conflict over Lilia and her child, marked by hostility and grudging respect.

Lilia Theobald

Gino and Lilia have a passionate but ill-fated marriage, driven by physical attraction and cultural misunderstanding, ending in Lilia's unhappiness.

Chapter II

Lilia's betrothed; displays crude manners and is revealed to be the son of a dentist.

III

Gino begins to assert control over Lilia's movements and social life, realizing his responsibilities as a husband. He is observed growing up and becoming more aware of class and gender dynamics.

IV

Gino is portrayed as a young, passionate, and controlling husband, primarily focused on fathering a son. He is affectionate yet domineering, and his infidelity and cultural expectations drive Lilia further into despair.

Chapter V

Gino writes a letter refusing the Herritons' offer to take the baby, citing his paternal heart and displeasure at the picture postcards. He is described by Miss Abbott as 'thoroughly wicked' but also as once seeming 'splendid' and 'sincere.'

VI

Gino is absent when Philip visits his house; he is away on business in Poggibonsi. Philip leaves a card requesting an interview.

Chapter VII

Shows deep paternal devotion, washing his baby and speaking of his desire for a wife to help; unintentionally disarms Caroline's moral arguments.

Chapter VIII

Mentioned as having called on Miss Abbott to say goodbye; Philip notes his courteous and manipulative nature.

Chapter IX

Overcome with grief and rage upon learning of his son's death; attacks Philip but is stopped by Miss Abbott and ultimately breaks down in sorrow.

Chapter X

Mentioned in Philip's letter and Caroline's confession; his friendship and emotional honesty are highlighted.