Evgeny Vasilich Bazarov is a medical student and self-proclaimed nihilist who believes only in empirical science. He explicitly rejects all established traditions, art, and institutional authorities. Though he is the son of a provincial doctor, he carries himself with a blunt assurance that disrupts the genteel norms of the people around him. He spends his time collecting specimens like frogs for dissection while challenging the traditional values of the older generation.

Arkady is a young, recent university graduate returning to his family estate, Marino, full of new ideas. He hero-worships his friend Bazarov and tries to adopt his strict nihilist philosophy. His natural affection for his family, nature, and music frequently contradicts these radical poses, putting him in an awkward middle ground. He acts as a bridge between his traditional father and his revolutionary friend.

Nikolai is a gentle, middle-aged widower and landowner who attempts to manage his struggling estate while adapting to liberal, modern practices. He loves poetry, plays the cello, and deeply values domestic harmony, which makes him vulnerable to the harsh criticisms of the younger generation. He lives with a much younger woman, Fenechka, causing him considerable embarrassment around his family.

Pavel is Nikolai's older brother, a former military man who retired to the countryside after a disastrous, consuming love affair. He maintains strict, aristocratic standards of dress and etiquette, clinging to an idealized view of English aristocracy. His refined sensibilities and rigid pride immediately clash with Bazarov's blunt disrespect for social norms.

Anna is a wealthy, independent widow who lives a highly structured life on her estate, Nikolskoe. Following a difficult childhood and a marriage to an older man, she prefers tranquility and order over emotional turbulence. She possesses a sharp intellect and approaches conversations with an open, analytical mind.

Katya is Anna's younger sister, who lives under Anna's authority and often retreats from the spotlight. She is a quiet young woman who enjoys playing the piano and spending time in nature. Her gentle, unpretentious demeanor provides a contrast to her older sister's commanding presence.

Fenechka is the young daughter of Nikolai's late housekeeper, who now lives with Nikolai as his mistress. She feels insecure about her ambiguous position in the household, caught between the status of a servant and a family member. She focuses on caring for her infant son and tries to avoid drawing the attention or judgment of Nikolai's brother.

Vassily is Bazarov's father, a retired military doctor who now runs a small country practice and manages a modest estate. He idolizes his son and attempts to stay current with modern medical science to earn Bazarov's respect. He masks his deep emotional attachment and anxiety behind eager conversation and classical references.

Arina is Bazarov's mother, a deeply devout and superstitious woman who belongs entirely to the traditions of old Russia. She manages the household's cooking and domestic chores while harboring a quiet, overwhelming love for her son. She is intimidated by modern ideas and defers entirely to her husband and son.

Sitnikov is a young man from a wealthy merchant family who eagerly latches onto radical, progressive trends. He views himself as a disciple of Bazarov, though his loud proclamations of nihilism are mostly a way to compensate for his own social insecurities. He acts as a sycophant, desperate for the approval of those he considers intellectual leaders.

Kukshina is a provincial woman who claims to hold radical, progressive views, living apart from her husband to maintain her independence. She attempts to run an intellectual salon, smoking cigarettes and drinking champagne while discussing chemistry and feminism. Her behavior is often anxious and mannered.

Mitya is the infant son of Nikolai and Fenechka. His presence solidifies the bond between his parents while also complicating Fenechka's position in the household, as he represents a physical manifestation of their socially unequal relationship.