An unreliable and somewhat condescending figure who recounts Pnin’s story, revealing his own connections and competition with Pnin in the process.

Pnin’s manipulative ex-wife, who brings emotional upheaval into his life and has a history of using others for personal gain.

Liza’s son, a talented young artist who forms a meaningful bond with Pnin, offering him a semblance of familial connection.

The head of the German and Russian Department at Waindell, who initially supports Pnin but prioritizes his own career advancement.

Chairman of the English Department with a penchant for mimicking Pnin, contributing to his professional challenges and ridicule.

Pnin’s landlords, who offer him a degree of domestic stability and friendship, despite their limited understanding of his deeper struggles.

Pnin’s first love, whose tragic past and memory haunt him, symbolizing a lost opportunity for happiness.