The Detective:
* The Classic Detective: Often brilliant, cynical, and with a troubled past, they rely on keen observation, logic, and deduction to solve crimes. (e.g., Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot)
* The Amateur Detective: Usually has a day job but is drawn into solving crimes due to personal involvement or a desire for justice. (e.g., Miss Marple, Jane Marple)
* The Police Detective: Works for a police department, often with a partner, and follows official procedures to solve crimes. (e.g., Inspector Lestrade, Lieutenant Columbo)
The Victim:
* The Innocent Victim: An individual who is targeted for no apparent reason and is completely innocent.
* The Suspect Victim: Someone who has a motive for their own demise and is initially considered a suspect.
* The Red Herring: A seemingly important character who is initially suspected but ultimately proven innocent.
The Suspect:
* The Obvious Suspect: Someone who has a clear motive and opportunity for the crime, often the first suspect investigated.
* The Red Herring: A seemingly important suspect who is initially considered a prime suspect but is eventually proven innocent.
* The Unexpected Suspect: Someone who is initially considered unlikely or even impossible as the perpetrator but turns out to be the culprit.
Other Important Characters:
* The Narrator: The voice of the story, who may be a character or an outside observer.
* The Sidekick: A loyal companion who often helps the detective with investigations, providing support and insights.
* The Witness: Someone who has seen something important related to the crime and can provide crucial information.
* The Informant: Someone who provides information to the detective, often in exchange for something.
* The Villain: The person responsible for the crime, often with a complex motive and elaborate plan.
Specific Character Types:
* The Femme Fatale: A seductive and manipulative woman who often uses her charm to lure victims.
* The Psychotic Killer: A disturbed individual who commits crimes for personal gratification or due to mental illness.
* The Mastermind: A brilliant and manipulative criminal who orchestrates complex crimes and often operates from the shadows.
* The Private Investigator: A self-employed detective who takes on cases for individuals or organizations.
This is just a sampling of the many characters that populate mystery novels. The diversity of characters is what makes the genre so engaging and constantly evolving.