Here's a breakdown of the main characters and how they're described:
* John Oakhurst: The main character, a professional gambler. He's described as a stoic and skilled gambler with a strong sense of honor. Despite being a hardened and experienced man, he's shown to be capable of kindness and compassion. London portrays him as a man who embraces his fate and finds dignity even in defeat.
* The "Duchess": A beautiful and cunning gambler who is John Oakhurst's equal in skill and ruthlessness. She's portrayed as strong-willed and independent, but also deeply lonely. She's deeply in love with John Oakhurst, but their love is complicated by their different paths and lifestyles.
* The "Kid": A young, idealistic gambler who is drawn to the excitement and danger of the life Oakhurst leads. He's portrayed as naive and easily influenced, but also capable of bravery and self-sacrifice. His admiration for Oakhurst is a major driving force in the story.
* Uncle Billy: A grizzled and experienced prospector who serves as a mentor to the "Kid". He's described as a simple and honest man who cares deeply for the "Kid" and seeks to protect him from the harsh realities of life in the West.
Here's how London uses various literary techniques to describe these characters:
* Dialogue: The characters' dialogue reveals their personalities, values, and motivations.
* Actions: Their actions are described in detail, showing their strength, weakness, and moral compass.
* Internal Monologue: London occasionally delves into the thoughts and feelings of the characters, providing insights into their inner world.
* Foreshadowing: The characters' actions and words are often presented in a way that foreshadows their fate and the tragic ending of the story.
Overall, London's characters in "Pieces of Silver" are complex and well-developed individuals, each with their own motivations, flaws, and strengths. The story delves into themes of fate, morality, and the human condition, and the characters are intricately woven into the narrative to explore these themes.