What Men Live By characters

Also known as Semyon

Appears from the start

A poor village shoemaker who has saved toward a sheepskin coat but cannot collect enough money owed by his customers. Returning home cold and discouraged, he finds an unclothed stranger beside a chapel and overcomes his fear long enough to give the man clothing and shelter.

Also known as Mikhail

First appears in chapter 2

A silent, destitute stranger whom Simon discovers without adequate clothing near a roadside chapel. He initially offers almost no account of himself, saying only that God has punished him, and accepts Simon's help with a grave, withdrawn manner.

First appears in chapter 3

Simon's practical wife, who manages their scarce food and clothing. She is furious when Simon returns without sheepskin and brings home another person to feed, but her anger changes when she looks closely at Michael and responds to his need.

First appears in chapter 6

A large, wealthy customer who brings Simon expensive leather and commands him to make boots that will keep their shape for a full year. His intimidating confidence rests on the assumption that he can determine exactly what he will need in the future.

First appears in chapter 9

A prosperous woman who brings two young girls to Simon's shop for footwear. Though she did not give birth to them, she has raised them together after their parents died and speaks of them with the tenderness of a mother.

First appears in chapter 9

Orphaned twin girls cared for by the woman who brings them to the shoemaker. One has a damaged leg. Their healthy growth and their foster mother's devotion make a powerful impression on Michael.