Love Story characters

Also known as Preppie

Appears from the start

A wealthy Harvard student, hockey player, and heir to a family whose name and expectations weigh heavily on him. Proud, competitive, and estranged from his father, he is drawn to Jenny Cavilleri's intelligence and refusal to be impressed by his background. He narrates their relationship knowing from the outset that it will end in loss.

Also known as Jenny

Appears from the start

A quick-witted Radcliffe music student from a working-class Italian American family in Rhode Island. She studies the harpsichord, intends to continue her musical education in Paris, and meets Oliver while working at a library desk. Direct and teasing, she challenges his assumptions while quickly becoming central to his life.

First appears in chapter 2

Oliver's Harvard roommate and fellow athlete, an easygoing friend who observes Oliver's intense relationship with Jenny and offers practical companionship without sharing Oliver's family conflicts.

First appears in chapter 4

Oliver's wealthy and imposing father, a former athletic champion whose achievements and reserve make his son feel perpetually judged. He expects Oliver to preserve the family's standards and views the younger man's choices through duty, reputation, and financial dependence.

First appears in chapter 6

Jenny's widowed father, an affectionate Rhode Island baker whom she calls Phil. Their relationship is warm and informal, in sharp contrast to Oliver's dealings with his own father. He welcomes Oliver and cares more about Jenny's happiness than social rank.

First appears in chapter 7

Oliver's gracious mother, who receives Jenny at the Barrett family home. Her courtesy softens the visit but cannot remove the tension between Oliver and his father or the class assumptions surrounding the couple.

First appears in chapter 17

The physician who explains to Oliver that Jenny has a serious blood disorder and that treatment cannot save her. He advises Oliver to keep her comfortable, placing on him the burden of knowing the prognosis before she does.