Elena Ferrante, born August 5, 1943, is an author whose identity is a mystery but whose writing is a revelation. Her works have achieved global acclaim. Each story is anything but anonymous—it is deeply personal, filled with emotional intensity, complex characters, and vivid settings. Through her works, Ferrante has painted a striking portrait of life, love, and the bonds that tie people together.
But it’s the characters who truly steal the show. Here, we celebrate the ten most memorable characters that define her storytelling genius.
What are the Memorable Characters Created by Elena Ferrante?
1. Elena Greco (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Elena, also known as Lenù, is the narrator of My Brilliant Friend. She starts as a curious, bookish girl growing up in a poor neighborhood in Naples. Throughout the series, we see her grow into a successful writer.
Her journey is filled with self-doubt, ambition, and longing. Elena constantly compares herself to her best friend, Lila. Despite her achievements, she battles feelings of inadequacy. She reflects on the struggles of balancing personal dreams with societal expectations.
2. Raffaella “Lila” Cerullo (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Lila is Elena’s fiery, unpredictable best friend. She is brilliant, creative, and fearless. Unlike Elena, Lila doesn’t follow the traditional education and career path. Instead, she challenges norms and carves her way.
Her intelligence shines through in everything she does, whether designing shoes or standing up to the powerful families in their neighborhood. Lila is complex—both loving and harsh, supportive yet competitive. Her magnetic personality leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
3. Nino Sarratore (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Nino is charming, intelligent, and ambitious. He enters Elena and Lila’s lives as a young, idealistic boy. Over time, his character becomes more complex and flawed.
Nino’s relationships with Elena and Lila are tumultuous. He represents both passion and betrayal, making him a pivotal character in the series. Readers often feel conflicted about him, which is a testament to Ferrante’s ability to write multidimensional characters.
4. Leda (The Lost Daughter, 2006)
Leda is the protagonist of The Lost Daughter, a haunting story about motherhood and identity. She is a middle-aged academic who spends her summer at the beach. During this time, she reflects on her choices as a mother and a woman.
Leda is brutally honest about her struggles. She admits to feeling trapped by motherhood and makes decisions that many consider selfish. Her character is deeply introspective, forcing readers to question societal norms about parenting and womanhood.
5. Olga (The Days of Abandonment, 2002)
Olga is the heartbroken protagonist of The Days of Abandonment. After her husband leaves her for another woman, Olga spirals into despair.
Her pain is raw and unfiltered. She struggles to care for her children while dealing with betrayal. Over time, Olga finds strength and resilience. Her journey from heartbreak to recovery is powerful and profoundly moving.
6. Giovanna (The Lying Life of Adults, 2020)
In The Lying Life of Adults, Giovanna is a teenager navigating a world of lies and secrets. Her journey begins when she overhears her father comparing her to a disliked aunt.
This comment sets her on a path of self-discovery. She learns about her family’s hidden truths and understands her identity. Giovanna’s coming-of-age story is filled with confusion, rebellion, and growth.
7. Don Achille (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Don Achille is a powerful and feared figure in Elena and Lila’s neighborhood. He is rumored to have a dark past, and children view him as almost mythical.
Despite his intimidating presence, Don Achille plays a key role in the girls’ early lives. His character represents the harsh realities of their environment and the influence of power in shaping their world.
8. Ada (The Days of Abandonment, 2002)
Ada is a quiet but supportive character in The Days of Abandonment. She helps Olga during her darkest times.
Though her role is minor, Ada’s presence is comforting. She represents the kindness and stability Olga needs to rebuild her life. Her subtle yet impactful role makes her a memorable figure.
9. Pietro Airota (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Pietro is Elena’s intellectual and emotionally distant husband. Their relationship starts with promise but grows strained over time.
Pietro struggles to understand Elena’s ambitions and her need for independence. He represents the clash between traditional roles and modern aspirations in marriage. His character is essential in highlighting Elena’s personal and professional growth.
10. Marcello Solara (My Brilliant Friend, 2011)
Marcello is a member of the notorious Solara family. He is manipulative and dangerous, embodying toxic masculinity.
Marcello’s presence looms large in the series, often causing fear and tension. His actions highlight the challenges Elena and Lila face in their oppressive environment.
The Bottom Line
The magic of Elena Ferrante’s characters lies in their authenticity. Their struggles and triumphs mirror our own, making their journeys unforgettable. Whether it’s Elena’s quiet resilience, Lila’s fiery brilliance, or Leda’s unflinching honesty, Ferrante’s characters beautifully capture the essence of human complexity and emotion.
Who’s your favorite Ferrante character? We’d love to hear your pick!