Shivers

A curious, bookish boy whose interest in a Madagascar stamp hints at a wider, more imaginative world. He is drawn into the school’s and camp’s rigid ideology, gradually becoming an adherent and even a zealot as he seeks approval from the Guide. His arc tracks a troubling transformation from open-mindedness to ideological fanaticism, culminating in a passion for regime slogans and a distorted sense of belonging.

An older, aggressive student who bullies Dominik and aligns with Kazimierz to enforce group norms. He embodies the pressure to conform and uses intimidation to police peers and dissent. His actions escalate the climate of fear that drives Tom deeper into the Pioneer movement.

A close ally of Jerzy, equally willing to participate in bullying and coercive behavior to maintain group control. He helps orchestrate the punitive dynamics that push Tom toward radical ideology. His presence demonstrates how peer pressure can propel collective conformity.

A camp counselor who selects Tom and becomes a central figure in his emotional and ideological development. She enforces rules and supervises the children, but also becomes a focal point of Tom’s longing for approval. Her correspondence with Tom hints at a complicated and troubling dynamic.

A fellow camper who is bullied by Jerzy and Kazimierz and becomes a tragic figure when he is beaten and ultimately commits suicide. His suffering highlights the brutal cost of the regime’s insistence on conformity and loyalty.

A figure representing the state-approved education system, he delivers strict Stalinist theory and enforces obedience among the students. His presence underscores the institutional authority behind the indoctrination arc.

Tom’s father, who is imprisoned during the crackdown on dissent, symbolizing the regime’s reach into the private sphere and the personal costs of political loyalty.

Tom’s mother, who witnesses the raid and the family’s destruction under state pressure, representing the domestic impact of political repression.

The administrator who oversees the pioneer program and embodies the regime’s control over youth education and activities.

A law-and-order figure who participates in the crackdown on perceived dissent and the enforcement of ideological conformity.

A member of the state security apparatus who participates in the raid and the suppression of dissent within the family and school.

A minor character reflecting the civilian social environment around the school and camp, illustrating how families are caught up in the regime’s machinery.

A secondary character symbolizing the social fabric that reinforces conformity within the camp culture.