Well, first off, there's Nicholas. He's the main character, a young man full of energy and a sense of justice. Then there are the people he meets during his travels. For example, Smike, a poor and abused boy whom Nicholas befriends. The Cheeryble brothers are also important. They are wealthy but kind - hearted businessmen who play a positive role in Nicholas's life. And we can't forget about Fanny Squeers, Squeers' daughter, who has her own little part to play in the story.