"Call Me By Your Name" Character Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

Elio Perlman

As the protagonist, Elio Perlman is the central character whose coming-of-age journey and romantic experiences form the core of the story.

Oliver

Oliver serves as the catalyst for Elio's self-discovery and plays a pivotal role in the novel as Elio's love interest.

Mr. Perlman

Elio's father, Mr. Perlman, is a supporting character whose wisdom and guidance influence Elio's emotional and intellectual development.

Mrs. Perlman

Mrs. Perlman, Elio's mother, provides familial support and understanding, contributing to the emotional backdrop of the narrative.

Character Descriptions

Elio Perlman

Elio is a precocious 17-year-old with a passion for music and literature. His introspective nature and artistic sensibilities set him apart from his peers. He is described as intelligent and sensitive, with a penchant for deep contemplation.

Oliver

Oliver is a charming and confident American graduate student who exudes an air of mystery and allure. His charisma and enigmatic persona captivate those around him, including Elio.

Mr. Perlman

Mr. Perlman is a scholarly and perceptive academic who emanates warmth and intellectual curiosity. His nurturing demeanor and insightful conversations create a nurturing environment for Elio's personal growth.

Mrs. Perlman

Mrs. Perlman is depicted as compassionate and understanding, providing a comforting presence within the family dynamic. Her support is evident in her interactions with Elio and her husband.

Character Traits

Elio Perlman

• Intellectual
• Artistic
• Reflective
• Passionate
• Vulnerable

Oliver

• Charismatic
• Mysterious
• Confident
• Alluring
• Free-spirited

Mr. Perlman

• Wise
• Nurturing
• Intellectual
• Supportive
• Understanding

Mrs. Perlman

• Compassionate
• Supportive
• Understanding
• Empathetic
• Nurturing

Character Background

Elio Perlman

Elio comes from a cultured and intellectually stimulating household in Northern Italy. His upbringing in an environment steeped in academia and the arts has shaped his worldview and cultivated his passion for music and literature.

Oliver

As an American scholar visiting the Perlman family, Oliver brings a sense of novelty and intrigue to the tranquil Italian setting. His confident demeanor and academic pursuits reflect his scholarly background.

Mr. Perlman

A respected professor and archaeologist, Mr. Perlman's scholarly pursuits have instilled in him a deep appreciation for knowledge and cultural exchange. His academic endeavors have influenced Elio's upbringing and intellectual development.

Mrs. Perlman

Mrs. Perlman's compassionate nature is rooted in her background as a supportive mother and understanding spouse. Her nurturing presence is informed by her experiences within the familial context.

Character Arcs

Elio Perlman

Elio undergoes a profound journey of self-discovery and sexual awakening during his transformative summer romance with Oliver. His emotional evolution and burgeoning understanding of love and desire shape his character arc.

Oliver

Oliver experiences a personal transformation as he navigates the complexities of his feelings for Elio within the context of societal expectations and personal identity. His internal conflicts and emotional growth contribute to his character arc.

Mr. Perlman

Mr. Perlman's character arc is characterized by his role as a mentor and source of wisdom for Elio. His guidance and understanding foster Elio's emotional and intellectual development, culminating in poignant moments of introspection and growth.

Mrs. Perlman

Mrs. Perlman's character arc is defined by her unwavering support for her family and her empathetic presence within the narrative. Her understanding and compassion contribute to the emotional fabric of the story.

Relationships

Elio and Oliver

The relationship between Elio and Oliver evolves from initial fascination to a profound romantic connection, marked by emotional intensity and personal revelations. Their bond is defined by mutual affection, intellectual rapport, and the complexities of first love.

Elio and Mr. Perlman

Elio's relationship with his father is characterized by deep respect, admiration, and intellectual exchange. Mr. Perlman's mentorship and paternal guidance influence Elio's emotional growth and self-discovery.

Elio and Mrs. Perlman

The relationship between Elio and his mother is portrayed as nurturing and understanding, with Mrs. Perlman providing a comforting presence and emotional support within the familial dynamic.

Oliver and Mr. Perlman

Oliver's interactions with Mr. Perlman reflect a shared intellectual rapport and mutual respect. Their conversations contribute to the academic and introspective undercurrent of the narrative.

Oliver and Mrs. Perlman

Oliver's interactions with Mrs. Perlman convey a sense of familial warmth and mutual regard, as she extends her understanding and support to him during his stay with the Perlman family.

In "Call Me By Your Name," the characters' nuanced traits, relationships, and arcs intertwine to create a rich tapestry of emotional depth and personal growth. Each character contributes to the narrative's exploration of love, identity, and the transformative power of human connection.