Character List and Analysis
Major Characters
Morrie Schwartz
Morrie is a sociology teacher at Brandies University. Morrie loves to dance, but sadly, he has been diagnosed with ALS, a disease that will steal his ability to move, and it will eventually end his life. He is featured on a show called "Nightline", and receives many letters from viewers of the show. Throughout the book, Morrie slowly gets worse, but he accepts the fact that death is coming, and embraces his old age. He teaches one of his former students (Mitch Albom) topics and lessons of life. These Tuesday meetings will be the last time Morrie teaches.
Mitch Albom
Mitch is a sports writer who gave up his dream of becoming a musician for a life of money, success and materialism. Since his college graduation he has
devoted his life to money and success. Since his visits with Morrie, he has started second-guess his career decisions, materialistic mentality and the way he treats his relationships. Through his meetings with Morrie, he realizes that he must change the way he lives. He wants another chance to reassess his values and priorities so that he can create a fulfilling life for himself before it is too late.
devoted his life to money and success. Since his visits with Morrie, he has started second-guess his career decisions, materialistic mentality and the way he treats his relationships. Through his meetings with Morrie, he realizes that he must change the way he lives. He wants another chance to reassess his values and priorities so that he can create a fulfilling life for himself before it is too late.
Minor Characters
Ted Koppel
Ted Koppel is a famous television newsman/personality, and he interviews Morrie three times for the “Nightline” show. Eventually, he considers Morrie a friend and is almost in tears during their last interview.
Charlotte Schwartz
Charlotte is Morrie’s wife, who is also a college professor. She keeps her job as a professor even while Morrie is sick because it is what he wished for her. She collects and keeps all the food that Mitch brings for Morrie because Morrie can't eat it.
Connie
Connie is one of Morrie's home-care workers. She and Morrie become good friends. She is a caring, compassionate lady.
Janine
Janine is Mitch's wife. She is a professional singer, and one Tuesday, she comes to visit Morrie and sings him a song. Morrie is moved to tears.
Eva
Eva is Morrie's stepmother. She encouraged Morrie to get an education, because she felt that education was the antidote to their poverty. Eva is responsible for Morrie's teaching career.
Peter
Peter is Mitch's brother, he grew apart from his brother when he got cancer and decided to fight it on his own, without friends or family to support him. He lives in Spain and does not like to talk to Mitch on the phone.By the end of the novel, the brothers get closer and Peter becomes more open about his illness.
Rob and Jon Schwartz
Rob and Jon are Morrie's two sons. They support him and help him write letters to people with questions.