The Picture (1955) by Eugène Ionesco (List of Characters)

 

The Picture (1955)

by Eugène Ionesco

(List of Characters) 

List of Characters in The Picture (1955) by Eugène Ionesco:

 

1. The Marshal

A powerful, wealthy, and authoritative figure. He represents social status, institutional power, and dominance. Confident and persuasive, he gradually influences the elderly couple to surrender the painting. His presence shifts the balance of control in the play.

 

2. The Old Man

The elderly husband and owner of the painting. He is modest, somewhat insecure, and easily intimidated by authority. Though initially proud of the painting, he slowly begins to doubt whether he deserves to own something so “valuable.”

 

3. The Old Woman

The wife of the Old Man. She shares pride in the painting but is equally vulnerable to the Marshal’s influence. She is impressionable and gradually accepts the idea that the painting belongs in a more prestigious setting.

 

Note on Character Structure

The play has only three characters, which is typical of absurdist drama. The limited cast intensifies the psychological tension and keeps the focus on ideas rather than action. Each character functions not only as an individual but also as a symbolic representation:

The Marshal → Authority and Power

The Old Man → Insecurity and Vulnerability

The Old Woman → Social Aspiration and Suggestibility