The Group in Hiding

Anne Frank The thirteen-year-old Jewish girl who writes a diary while she is hiding in Amsterdam from the Nazis during World War II.

Margot Frank Anne’s sister; she is three years older than Anne.

Otto Frank Anne’s father; he is a Jewish businessman who left Germany after Hitler’s rise to power, hoping to find refuge in Holland.

Mrs. Frank Anne’s mother; she is the source of many conflicts with Anne during the two years that the family spends in hiding.

Mr. Van Daan A Jewish businessman and an associate of Mr. Frank’s. He and his family share the “Secret Annexe” with the Franks.

Mrs. Van Daan Mr. Van Daan’s wife; a rather interfering person. Anne finds it difficult to get along with her.

Peter Van Daan The Van Daans’ son; he is two-and-a-half years older than Anne, and his calm, quiet nature contrasts with her more excitable, vital personality. At first, Anne thinks that Peter is dull, but later on, they develop a warm and loving friendship.

Mr. Dussel An elderly dentist who joins the group in hiding in November 1942. He shares Anne’s room, and his pedantic nature continually irritates her.

The Dutch “Protectors” or “Helpers”

Mr. Kraler A Dutch Gentile businessman who has been an associate of Mr. Frank and Mr. Van Daan and who takes over the running of the business when they are no longer able to do so. He works in the office in the building where the “Secret Annexe” is located, and he helps with technical, logistical aspects, such as obtaining food for the people in hiding.

Mr. Koophuis A Dutch Gentile business associate of Mr. Frank and Mr. Van Daan. He also takes over the running of the business after all Jews have been forbidden to employ Gentiles, and he helps to conceal the group in hiding and obtain supplies for them.

Miep A young woman who works in the office below the “Secret Annexe.” She helps with obtaining food and supplies for the group in hiding and keeping their spirits up.

Elli A young typist who also works in the office below the “Secret Annexe.” She also helps obtain food and supplies for the group in hiding and comforts them psychologically.