The Emigrants

The family’s practical, burden-bearing head who weighs hope of better land against obligations at home. He remains a protective, if sometimes conflicted, provider who drives the emigration plan.

Karl Oskar’s devoted wife, initially wary of leaving Sweden but deeply attached to family and faith. Her evolving stance—especially after tragedy—pulls the family toward a perilous voyage and a new life in America.

Kristina’s uncle and a fervent religious dissenter who incurs persecution and exile. His conflict with local authority mirrors the broader struggle for religious freedom.

A fellow farmhand who joins the plan to emigrate, helping finance and organize passage. Practical and hopeful, he embodies the pragmatic side of leaving home.

A neighbor seeking escape from an unhappy marriage, drawn by the promise of a new life in America. He represents the impulse to pursue freedom and new beginnings.

A former prostitute who travels with the emigrants and seeks a new start in the North American frontier. Her presence challenges social judgments and complicates Kristina’s views.

Ulrika’s daughter, a child on the move whose innocence is tested by the journey and the harsh realities of emigration.

An elderly companion who shares the dream of land in Minnesota and provides companionship and support on the voyage.

A farm owner whose authority and stance help shape the emigrants’ decisions and social dynamics before departure.

The local provost who enforces religious norms and becomes an obstacle to Danjel’s practice of faith, underscoring the central conflict of belief and power.

A friendly Baptist minister who offers welcome support and assistance once the group reaches Stillwater and Minnesota.

An elderly settler who accompanies the group toward Minnesota, providing land knowledge and moral support.

A neighbor with opportunities on the frontier; his presence highlights the lure of western lands and new beginnings.

Danjel’s wife who joins the journey with her children, seeking safety and a better life in the new land.