The Last Picture Show | Teaching Key Figures

Character Descriptions

This section provides a short description of all the major characters in the book. This can be printed out as a study guide for students, used as a "key" for leading a class discussion, or you can jump to the quiz/homework section to find worksheets that incorporate these descriptions into a variety of question formats.

Characters

Sonny - This character is the protagonist of the novel, and is a kind-hearted high school senior.

Billy - This mentally challenged character sweeps buildings and is killed when hit by a truck.

Sam the Lion - This large, older character has a big mane of white hair and is the owner of Thalia's pool hall, picture show, and all-night cafe.

Dwayne - This tall character with curly black hair goes to fight in the Korean War.

Abilene - This character is the wealthy driller.

Coach Popper - This character is the civics...
(read more)