The Chairs (1952) by Eugène Ionesco (List of Characters)

 

The Chairs (1952)

by Eugène Ionesco

(List of Characters) 

Major (Visible) Characters

1. The Old Man

A ninety-five-year-old man who believes he possesses an important message that will save humanity. He is insecure, nostalgic, and desperate for recognition. He cannot clearly express his “great idea” and depends on others to validate his worth.

 

2. The Old Woman (Semiramis)

The Old Man’s ninety-four-year-old wife. Devoted, supportive, and nurturing, she constantly reassures him of his genius and significance. She encourages his illusions and helps organize the gathering of invisible guests. She is emotionally dependent yet practical in action.

 

3. The Orator

A professional speaker hired to deliver the Old Man’s message to the audience. Unlike the other guests, he is physically present on stage. However, he is deaf and mute (or incapable of meaningful speech), symbolizing the failure of communication.

 

Invisible (Imaginary) Characters

These characters never physically appear but are treated as real by the Old Man and Old Woman. They are represented only through empty chairs.

 

4. The Gentlewoman

An early guest, greeted with politeness and social courtesy.

 

5. The Colonel

A military figure, symbolizing authority and status.

 

6. The Belle

A woman from the Old Man’s past, possibly representing lost love or regret.

 

7. The Photographer

Suggests memory, record, or the desire to be remembered.

 

8. The Emperor

The most important invisible guest. He symbolizes ultimate authority, power, or societal recognition. His invisibility emphasizes the emptiness of such power.

 

9. Numerous Other Guests

Various unnamed individuals, officials, and dignitaries who supposedly fill the room as the play progresses.

 

Character Structure Note

Although many “characters” are mentioned, only three are physically present on stage. The invisible guests are essential to the play’s symbolism, emphasizing illusion, absence, and existential emptiness.