Primary Characters in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Arthur Dent
The reluctant hero and our primary window into the bizarre universe of the Hitchhiker's Guide. Arthur is delightfully ordinary, perpetually bewildered, and desperately attached to his Earthly comforts – particularly tea.
NoteArthur's character serves as the perfect audience surrogate, allowing readers to experience the absurdity of space through relatable human reactions.
"This must be Thursday," said Arthur to himself, sinking low over his beer. "I never could get the hang of Thursdays."
Key characteristics:
- Perpetually wears his dressing gown throughout his space adventures
- Maintains very British sensibilities despite cosmic chaos
- Gradually evolves from complete helplessness to a sort of resigned acceptance
Ford Prefect
A roving researcher for the Hitchhiker's Guide and Arthur's best friend on Earth. Originally from Betelgeuse, Ford is the catalyst for Arthur's cosmic journey.
TipPay attention to Ford's name – it's a perfect example of Adams' humor, as Ford mistook cars for Earth's dominant life form and chose his name accordingly.
Key traits:
- Incredibly laid-back in crisis situations
- Values having a good time over personal safety
- Possesses extensive knowledge of the galaxy, though often useless in practical situations
Zaphod Beeblebrox
The two-headed, three-armed President of the Galaxy and self-proclaimed "hoopy frood."
ExampleZaphod's character embodies political satire through extreme narcissism:
"If there's anything more important than my ego around here, I want it caught and shot now."
Defining features:
