Captain Adolf is a former military cavalry officer who pursues scientific research. He serves as the patriarchal head of his household, firmly believing in male superiority and logic over emotion. He argues with his wife over their daughter's education, viewing the disagreement as a battlefield where he must maintain absolute authority. His rigid worldview leaves little room for compromise.

Laura is the Captain's wife. She is determined to secure her own vision for her daughter's future. Living in a society and household that legally restrict women's power, she relies on cunning and psychological tactics to combat her husband's authority. She is fiercely protective of her own interests and acts resourcefully to gain control over the family's direction.

Bertha is the daughter of the Captain and Laura. She is a young woman caught in the middle of an ideological battle between her parents regarding her future career and education. She loves both her mother and father, trying to please everyone while figuring out her own identity. Her parents treat her future as a prize to be won rather than asking what she truly desires.

Margret is the elderly nurse of the household. Having raised the Captain since he was a young boy, she retains a strong motherly affection for him. She is a devout, nurturing figure who attempts to mediate the household's disputes. She prioritizes care and spiritual well-being over the bitter power struggles dividing the family.

The pastor is Laura's brother and the Captain's friend. He represents institutional religion and aligns his moral compass with whoever holds the most power in a given situation. He initially sympathizes with the Captain's patriarchal views but remains highly observant of his sister's formidable will.

The doctor is a newcomer to the area. As a man of science and logic, he seeks objective truth and requires concrete evidence before making medical diagnoses. Brought into the family's home to provide care, he quickly finds himself caught in the middle of Laura and the Captain's dispute. He attempts to remain professional while monitoring the household's tense dynamics.

Nojd is a wayward young cavalryman under the Captain's command. He faces disciplinary action for impregnating a servant girl named Emma. His casual dismissal of responsibility for the child establishes the household's broader conversations regarding gender dynamics and paternity.

The grandmother is Laura's mother. She is a devout believer in mysticism and occult spiritualism, actively trying to train Bertha as a medium. Her beliefs stand in direct opposition to the Captain's strict adherence to science, adding another layer of ideological conflict to the household.