Sula

Sula's best friend, raised by a strict mother, who grows into a settled, conventional wife and mother.

Nel's childhood friend, whose independence and refusal to follow convention make her an outcast in the Bottom after she returns.

Sula's formidable one-legged grandmother, who rules the boarding house at the centre of the Peace family.

Sula's free-spirited mother, scorned by the town's women for her many lovers.

Nel's domineering, church-going mother, who enforces propriety above all.