Protagonist

Character Role Analysis

Vladimir Nabokov

Whether we start out thinking he's an over-privileged brat or an extremely sensitive and promising young boy, Vladimir is our hero and guide in this autobiography. Nabokov might not say so, but it's through Vladimir that we track the changes of his world and the evolution of his thoughts and feelings. It's hard not to align yourself in the bargain. By the end, Vladimir has scrapped to have the chance to be a working writer and teacher, and it's hard not feel pleased as his little family walks toward the boat that will take them to America.