The Banker is a wealthy, extroverted man who enjoys hosting intelligent guests for controversial discussions. He is impulsive and highly confident in his opinions. Driven by pride and a hotheaded nature, he aggressively defends his stance that capital punishment is more humane than life imprisonment. He uses his vast financial resources to stake two million rubles on a bizarre challenge.

The Lawyer is an introverted, soft-spoken young man who attends the Banker's gathering. Despite his quiet demeanor, he is proud and holds firm beliefs about the value of human existence. He asserts that living under any condition is better than death. His immense self-confidence prompts him to accept an extraordinary wager to prove his principles.

The Guest is an unnamed attendee at the dinner party. He holds the firm view that the state lacks the right to take a life because it cannot restore life once gone. His ethical declaration sets the stage for the escalating argument between the host and the young legal professional.

The Watchmen are employees hired to secure the estate where the long-term wager takes place. They maintain a steady presence around the garden cottage. Their duties involve ensuring the physical boundaries of the agreement are monitored without interacting with the prisoner.