Chiu Maguang
The protagonist of the story, Chiu Maguang is a thirty-four-year-old professor living in Harbin, China. Mr. Chiu stubborn and strong-minded character, which is continually reinforced through the adversity in the short story. Despite Mr. Chui's bold demeanor, the audience is constantly reminded of his worry about his liver, he suffers from acute hepatitis and worries about possibly relapsing.
Mr. Chui's Wife
Mr. Chui's wife is described to be pale and timid, she also wears wire glasses. She has recently graduated with a degree in fine arts.
Chief of the Bureau
In the story, the chief is characterized as a "thin, bald man, who looked serene and intelligent". Through his treatment towards Mr. Chui and Fenjin we are shown his hatred to the Communist party.
Fenjin
Fenjin is recent graduate from Harbin University as a law student. Two years before, Fenjin took a course by Mr. Chui in Marxist materialism. Although Mr. Chui is upset that his former student was sent to rescue him from prison, there is a streak of bravery in Fenjin when he calls the chief a 'bandit'.
