Born in Russia, David begins his life as a devoted Orthodox Jewish student of the Talmud. He frequently experiences bullying due to extreme poverty but excels academically in his religious studies. Following a family tragedy, he immigrates to the United States with four cents in his pocket, hoping to pursue a secular education and understand American business.

The educated, recently divorced daughter of a wealthy Russian family. She speaks fluent Russian, attended boarding school in Germany, and openly challenges David's strict religious worldview. She enjoys playfully teasing him about his piety while pushing him toward worldly ambitions.

A large-boned man who introduces David to the secular aspects of American life. He works in the secular business world and guides David on how to dress, act, and interact socially in the United States. He eventually rents a room to David in his family's home.

The serious, intelligent wife of Max Margolis. She works to maintain her home and keeps pace with her daughter's studies, demonstrating a strong desire for education. Her dedication to learning English catches David's attention when he moves into their household.

A devout, highly protective Orthodox Jewish widow living in extreme poverty in Russia. She works relentlessly and sacrifices her own comfort to ensure her son receives a proper religious education. She holds considerable sway among the local women due to her outspoken nature and strict piety.

A noted Russian Jewish poet whose romantic history and literary talent impress a young David. He represents a blend of cultural tradition and secular intellectualism, later writing for a New York Hebrew weekly and attempting real estate ventures.

The intelligent daughter of the poet Abraham Tevkin. She is independent, engaging in literary debates, and remains aloof toward suitors seeking her attention for superficial reasons. She actively participates in her family's dynamic intellectual life.

A dedicated scholar at the yeshivah in Antomir. He forms a familial bond with David, guiding his religious studies and advising him on maintaining a pious life in the face of worldly temptations.

A near-sighted Talmudic student and childhood friend of David. He possesses a passionate recitation style but struggles with religious skepticism, introducing David to secular poetry.

An Orthodox traveler who crosses the Atlantic alongside David. He quickly finds employment as a tailor upon arriving in America, adapting to the garment industry much faster than his companion.

A wealthy, elderly Russian woman who supports impoverished Talmudic scholars. She represents a middle ground between strict observance and modern adaptation, saving David from severe illness.

A dignified, wealthy leader in the Jewish neighborhood of New York. He provides David with his first set of American clothes and sets him up with initial lodging.

A successful clothing manufacturer who operates his own factory. He possesses practical business sense but struggles with reading and writing, temporarily hiring David for lessons.

David's landlady in his tiny attic apartment. She is immensely proud of her son's manufacturing success and bridges the connection between David and Meyer.

A dedicated English teacher who helps David master the language. He encourages David's intellectual pursuits by gifting him reading material and dictionaries.

A former Talmudist who works in the garment industry. He has a passion for Jewish theater and forms a bond with David over their shared backgrounds.

A skilled Russian immigrant whose clothing designs contribute substantially to his employer's success. He possesses great tailoring talent but relies on his wife for business acumen.

The domineering wife of Ansel Chaikin. She asks pointed financial questions and seeks to protect her family's interests from risky ventures.

A pragmatic factory worker who understands the realities of marriage and economic support in the immigrant community.

A devout Talmudic scholar who maintains strict religious observance in America. He welcomes David into his traditional family circle.

The daughter of Mr. Kaplan. She represents a traditional, religiously grounded path for a young immigrant seeking a family.

The young daughter of Max and Dora Margolis. She focuses diligently on her education with the active support of her mother.

The son of a rich merchant who possesses a keen mind and exceptional memorization skills. His academic prowess sparks intense academic envy among his peers.