Sister Carrie characters

Also known as Carrie

Appears from the start

An eighteen-year-old from rural Wisconsin who travels to Chicago hoping for work and a larger life. Inexperienced but observant, she is strongly drawn to comfort, fashionable surroundings, and the possibilities of the city.

Also known as Drouet

Appears from the start

A confident traveling salesman who meets Carrie on the train to Chicago. Well dressed, sociable, and practiced at impressing women, he takes her address and offers friendship and help as she settles in the city.

First appears in chapter 2

Carrie's older sister in Chicago, whose modest household provides Carrie's first home in the city. Minnie cares about her sister but has little freedom to oppose her husband's strict concern with expenses.

Also known as Hanson

First appears in chapter 2

Minnie's husband, a hardworking and economical man who expects Carrie to find employment and contribute to the household. His narrow domestic routine shows Carrie one version of city life that she is determined to escape.

Also known as Hurstwood

First appears in chapter 10

The polished manager of a fashionable Chicago bar, married and established but increasingly dissatisfied with his ordinary domestic life. Through Drouet he meets Carrie and is captivated by her youth and emerging self-possession.

First appears in chapter 12

Hurstwood's wife, who presides over their comfortable household and watches closely over the family's money and social position. She expects the privileges and respect due to the wife of a successful manager.

First appears in chapter 12

The Hurstwoods' socially ambitious daughter, interested in fashionable company and in securing the privileges attached to her family's position.

First appears in chapter 31

A stylish young New York neighbor who befriends Carrie and introduces her to a more cultivated and expensive social world than the one Carrie shares with Hurstwood.

Also known as Ames

First appears in chapter 32

A thoughtful young man whom Carrie meets through the Vances. His conversation about art, purpose, and worthwhile achievement makes her dissatisfied with merely possessing money or attracting admiration.

First appears in chapter 39

A cheerful young actress who becomes Carrie's friend and roommate as Carrie's theatrical career advances. She shares the practical routines and social pleasures of stage life without Carrie's persistent sense that success should yield something more.