War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy is indeed an epic narrative with a large ensemble of characters. But don't be unsettled! Here are some of the main characters that you should familiarize yourself with: 1. Pierre Bezukhov: A complicated character and one of the figures at the heart of the novel. He is an illegitimate child who later becomes Count Bezukhov after his father's passing. Pierre is an intellectual in pursuit of a meaningful life. 2. Natasha Rostova: She is the youngest child of the Rostov family. Natasha is vibrant, charming and one of the chief characters of the novel. Her emotional journey forms the crux of the story. 3. Prince Andrey Bolkonsky: A deep-thinking, somewhat disillusioned aristocrat who is friend to Pierre, and has a complex relationship with Natasha. His experiences in war and his philosophical outlook are central to the novel. 4. Nikolai Rostov: Natasha's brother, and a soldier. His decisions often affect the financial future of the Rostov family. 5. Princess Marya Bolkonskaya: Prince Andrei's sister, a very religious and noble women who has to bear the brunt of their father's stern nature. 6. Helene Kuragina: Pierre's wife who is considered one of the most beautiful women in Russia, her ambitions play a significant role in the story. These are some of the many characters you'll meet in War and Peace. The novel is a reflection of human life and illustrates every shade of emotion and a variety of individuals. It will slowly weave its magic as you delve deeper into it. Happy reading!