Yakov is a low-ranking government clerk living in Saint Petersburg. As a socially awkward bureaucrat, he struggles with intense paranoia and a deep sense of alienation from his peers. He takes pride in his solitary habits but secretly covets the respect of the city's elite, often trying to mimic their behaviors. His fragile mental state is tested when he begins encountering a man who looks exactly like him.

A mysterious arrival in Saint Petersburg who shares the exact name and physical appearance of the protagonist. Unlike his counterpart, he possesses immense charm and social grace. He secures a position in the same bureaucratic office and quickly makes friends, effortlessly moving through the social circles that reject his identical peer. He initially acts sympathetically in private before adopting a patronizing attitude in public.

A somewhat lazy and disreputable manservant who shares a small apartment with his employer. He tolerates erratic demands but refuses to show the strict deference expected of a servant. His blunt demeanor and quiet judgments add to the household's tense atmosphere, and he frequently expresses his disapproval through silence.

The daughter of a wealthy State Counsellor. As an admired member of Saint Petersburg's high society, she is used to lavish celebrations and public attention. She becomes the object of a misguided romantic obsession, leading to uncomfortable social encounters when uninvited guests crash her events.

A medical doctor practicing in Saint Petersburg. He advises his patient to abandon a solitary lifestyle in favor of socializing and visiting public establishments, though his clinical advice is largely ignored. He represents the clinical authority attempting to cure escalating mental distress.

The strict head of a bureaucratic department. He expects professionalism from his clerks and quickly loses patience with erratic behavior in the workplace, preferring employees who demonstrate competence. He acts as a gatekeeper to professional success within the office.

A State Counsellor and longtime mentor. He represents the wealthy elite of the capital, hosting lavish dinners and events that attract the upper echelons of society. He controls access to the social circles that lesser bureaucrats wish to enter.

An amiable clerk working in a government office. He frequently engages in casual workplace chatter and remains unbothered by unusual occurrences, casually dismissing concerns about identical employees. He represents the normalized, functioning bureaucracy.

A well-connected young man working within the bureaucratic system. He accompanies his uncle through the streets of Saint Petersburg, representing the comfortable, integrated class that easily secures employment and status.

An old work colleague working in Saint Petersburg. He corresponds via letters, providing a harsh outside perspective on social blunders and severed friendships. His written communication serves as documented proof of a collapsing social circle.

The authoritative owner of a bureaucratic company. He maintains a distance from the daily struggles of low-ranking clerks and expects smooth operations within his enterprise. He has absolutely no patience for personal grievances interrupting his schedule.