Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov: Raskolnikov is the main character in the book. A self described intellectual who believes himself to be better then the average folks around him. It is this superiority that leads to all of the crises he faces in the book
Semyon Zakharovich Marmeladov: Marmeladov is a former military worker who is on hard times when he meets Raskolnikov. He forges a friendship with Raskolnikov which creates another story arc about his family's struggles with poverty
Sofya Semyonovna Marmeladov: Sofya is the daughter of Semyon Marmeladov and through him starts a strong relationship with Raskolnikov. Because of her family's money problems Sofya must prostitute herself to keep the family afloat.
Porfiry Petrovich: Porfiry Petrovich is a detective working to solve the case of the murders Raskolnikov committed. He reveals himself eventually to be a very crafty individual who is more then an even match for Raskolnikov.
Avdotya Romanovna Raskolnikov (Dunya): Dunya is Raskolnikovs sister and plays an important role in the novel. There is a lot of tension surrounding her possible marriage to the nefarious Pyotr Petrovich Luzhin. This adds another antagonist to the story along with Porfiry Petrovich.