The Character Shaping in Old Man Gao

"Pére Goriot" was one of the representative works of France and Balzac. The novel was set in the 19th century French upper-class society and created a series of distinct characters by describing the life experiences of the protagonist, Old Goriot. The following are the characteristics of the characters in Old Man Goriot: Old Man Gao The protagonist of the novel was a gentleman from the French upper class. He looked elegant on the surface, but in reality, he was selfish, cold, and heartless. He was satisfied with his wealth and status, but lacked compassion and care for the people and things around him. His attitude towards his daughter was also very bad. He was indifferent and opposed to his daughter's love and marriage. 2. The other main character in the novel, Maupassant, was one. On the surface, he had great wealth and reputation, but in fact, he was empty and lonely inside. He longed to be understood and recognized, but he could not find a true confidant or friend. His language was concise and clear, good at describing his inner feelings, and had a strong appeal. 3. Eugène Eugenie Grandet Eugen Eugenie Grandet was the daughter of Old Man Gao and one of the main characters in the novel. She was a greedy, selfish, and vain woman who did not hesitate to spend a lot of money and energy in order to obtain more wealth and status. She lacked love and compassion for her family and loved ones. She only cared about her money and status. 4. Jacques Lampe Jacques Lampe was a friend of Old Man Gao and a businessman. On the surface, he had great wealth and status, but in fact, he was empty and lonely inside. He longed to be understood and recognized, but he could not find a true confidant or friend. His humorous words were very infectious. Through a series of vivid characters, Pérot Goriot showed the life, thoughts and values of the upper class in 19th century France, and also reflected the greed and vanity of human nature.