Master and Man characters

Appears from the start

A prosperous provincial merchant, landowner, and church elder who measures success through bargains and possessions. Eager to buy a valuable grove before rival buyers reach it, he insists on traveling into worsening winter weather with his servant Nikita.

Appears from the start

Vasili's aging servant, an experienced and capable worker who is poorly paid partly because past drinking has left him dependent on his employer. Now sober and gentle with animals, he recognizes the storm's danger but submits to his master's decisions.

Appears from the start

Vasili's practical wife. More cautious than her husband, she insists that he take Nikita on the journey rather than face the snow alone, despite Vasili's confidence in his own judgment.

Appears from the start

The sturdy bay gelding harnessed to Vasili's sledge. Nikita understands and cares for the horse, relying on its senses when wind and snow erase the road.

First appears in chapter 3

A cheerful young peasant at the village where the travelers take shelter. He quotes a familiar adventure story and guides Vasili and Nikita back toward the road when Vasili refuses to remain safely indoors.