HHhH characters

Appears from the start

The self-conscious storyteller who is trying to write about Operation Anthropoid while repeatedly questioning his memory, his research, and the liberties taken by historical fiction. His interruptions make the construction of the book part of its subject.

Also known as The Hangman of Prague

First appears in chapter 20

A senior Nazi security official whose career and assassination form the historical center of the narrative. Intelligent, ambitious, and remorseless, he rises through the SS and becomes acting ruler of the occupied Czech lands.

First appears in chapter 145

A Slovak soldier selected by the Czechoslovak government-in-exile for Operation Anthropoid. Trained in Britain and parachuted into the occupied homeland, he is tasked with attacking Heydrich alongside Jan Kubiš.

First appears in chapter 150

A Czech soldier paired with Jozef Gabčík for Operation Anthropoid. Quietly determined and trained in exile, he returns by parachute to help carry out the exceptionally dangerous mission against Heydrich.

First appears in chapter 85

The head of the SS and Heydrich's superior. He recognizes Heydrich's administrative and intelligence talents and gives him increasing power within the Nazi police system.

First appears in chapter 90

The leader of Nazi Germany, shown using Heydrich and the security apparatus to destroy political opposition and impose terror across occupied Europe.

First appears in chapter 180

A Czechoslovak paratrooper and resistance fighter who helps the Anthropoid team prepare the attack. His knowledge of Prague and willingness to expose himself make him an important operational ally.

First appears in chapter 185

A Czechoslovak officer parachuted into the occupied country with another mission. He becomes the senior soldier among the men later sheltered together by the Prague resistance.

First appears in chapter 185

A Czech resistance organizer who coordinates hiding places and practical support for the parachutists in Prague while living under the constant threat of German surveillance.

First appears in chapter 190

A Prague woman whose family gives the parachutists shelter and assistance. Her home is one of the fragile links connecting the exiled soldiers to the domestic resistance.

First appears in chapter 190

A Czech paratrooper who returns from Britain on a separate mission and joins the network supporting the men of Operation Anthropoid. Like the others, he depends on civilians who risk execution by hiding them.