A Simple Soul characters

Appears from the start

A devoted servant in the household of Madame Aubain at Pont-l'Évêque. Félicité is frugal, physically capable, deeply religious, and almost entirely absorbed in caring for other people. Her narrow life is marked by repeated losses, yet she continues to attach herself wholeheartedly to each new object of affection.

Appears from the start

A respectable but financially constrained widow who employs Félicité and lives with her two children in Pont-l'Évêque. She is reserved and practical, and she depends upon Félicité's tireless management of the home even when she does not fully understand the servant's feelings.

Appears from the start

Madame Aubain's son. As a child he is one of Félicité's charges; later his education and adult life take him away from the household.

Also known as Virginie

Appears from the start

Madame Aubain's delicate young daughter, whom Félicité tends with maternal devotion. Her religious instruction draws Félicité more deeply into the rituals and imagery of Catholic faith.

First appears in chapter 2

A young man who courts Félicité during her youth. His attention offers her a hope of marriage and security before his self-interest becomes clear.

First appears in chapter 3

Félicité's nephew, a sailor whose visits give her a new family attachment after the Aubain children begin to leave her daily care.

Appears from the start

A local man of business who advises Madame Aubain and is a familiar visitor to the household. Félicité regards his learning and worldly authority with respect.

First appears in chapter 4

A parrot sent to the Aubain household and eventually given to Félicité. Its bright appearance and few repeated words make it a vivid companion in her increasingly quiet life.