Character Analysis of a Crime Story

Study Notes

Ovsyannikov: The protagonist, a police officer who is tasked with investigating a crime scene. He is portrayed as a strict and disciplined individual who is determined to solve the case.
Kiryakov: The main suspect in the crime, who is described as a rough and uneducated man. He is accused of stealing a button, but claims to be innocent.
The Witnesses: A group of people who claim to have seen Kiryakov commit the crime. They are portrayed as unreliable and biased, which raises questions about the reliability of eyewitness testimony.

The Button: The stolen button serves as a symbol for the arbitrary nature of justice. The fact that a person is accused and almost convicted over a small, seemingly insignificant item highlights the flaws in the justice system.
The Chameleon: The nickname "Chameleon" refers to Ovsyannikov's ability to change his personality and demeanor to suit the situation. This symbolizes the adaptability and corruptibility of those in power.
The Setting: The story takes place in a small, rural town, which serves as a symbol for the narrow-mindedness and pettiness of the characters. The setting also highlights the isolation and lack of opportunities in rural areas.