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Salvatore

A simple fisherman and the protagonist of the story. Salvatore personifies the rare quality of goodness. He starts the story as a small young boy and ends the story as a big burly man with two sons of his own.

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Assunta 

The woman whom Salvatore eventually marries. Assunta is described as ugly, grim-faced, and looking older than she is. She is also described as kind, smart, and loving.

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The Girl

A proud and beautiful girl who lives in the Grande Marina and with whom Salvatore falls in love.

The Narrator

An unidentified person who has known Salvatore since he was a young teen and continues to observe him now that he is a grown man.

Salvatore's Father

A hard-working fisherman who lives a simple life in Italy.

Salvatore's Mother

A kind and nurturing woman who loves her son.

Salvatore's Brothers

Two boys that Salvatore helps to raise. They are grown when Salvatore returns from military service.

Next section Salvatore

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