Eleanor Bold

Eleanor Bold is the younger daughter of the Reverend Septimus Harding, known as the "Warden," and is a wealthy widow of John Bold. She resides with her infant son and her sister-in-law, Mary Bold. Eleanor's romantic choices form a significant part of the novel's narrative, as she must decide between her three suitors: Mr. Slope, Bertie Stanhope, and Mr. Arabin. For much of the story, her ecclesiastical friends and relatives anticipate she will choose Mr. Slope. Ultimately, Eleanor marries the Reverend Francis Arabin.

Dr. Proudie

Dr. Proudie becomes the Bishop of Barchester following the death of Archdeacon Grantly’s father. He is a vain but weak man, heavily influenced by his domineering wife, Mrs. Proudie, and Mr. Slope. Despite the expectation that he would offer the wardenship of Hiram’s Hospital to Mr. Harding, Dr. Proudie permits Mr. Slope’s machinations to award the appointment to Mr. Quiverful.

Mrs. Proudie

Mrs. Proudie is the assertive and controlling wife of the Bishop of Barchester. She attempts to dominate Barchester by supporting evangelical and Low Church causes, distributing church patronage, and manipulating people through Mr. Slope. Her actions create tension with the established ecclesiastical society in Barchester.

The Reverend Obadiah Slope

The Reverend Obadiah Slope is the Bishop's chaplain, known for his evangelical fervor. His initial sermon at Barchester Cathedral causes friction with much of the chapter. Initially, he acts on behalf of Mrs. Proudie, but when he seeks to curry favor with Eleanor Bold by supporting Mr. Harding, Mrs. Proudie disavows him. Failing to win both Eleanor and the position of Dean of Barchester, Mr. Slope returns to London.

The Reverend Theophilus Grantly

The Reverend Theophilus Grantly serves as the Archdeacon of Barchester and is the rector of Plumstead Episcopi. He is a staunch supporter of his father-in-law, Mr. Harding, in his quest to be reinstated as the warden of Hiram’s Hospital. When the living of St. Ewold’s becomes available, he visits Oxford to secure the post for the Reverend Francis Arabin. He is also concerned about the possibility of his sister-in-law, Eleanor, marrying Mr. Slope.

Susan Grantly

Susan Grantly is the wife of Archdeacon Grantly and the elder daughter of Mr. Harding. Although she generally follows her husband’s lead, she makes efforts to moderate his temper when it comes to her sister, Eleanor.

The Reverend Septimus Harding

The Reverend Septimus Harding is the former warden of Hiram’s Hospital. He desires to return to his former position but is thwarted by Mr. Slope and Mrs. Proudie, who insist on additional responsibilities and the establishment of evangelical Sunday Schools. Later, he is offered the deanship of Barchester Cathedral but declines due to his advanced age.

The Reverend Francis Arabin

The Reverend Francis Arabin is a scholarly High Church clergyman from Oxford, brought into the living at St. Ewold’s to bolster opposition against Bishop Proudie and Mr. Slope. Ultimately, he becomes Dean of Barchester and marries Eleanor Bold.

Dr. Vesey Stanhope

Dr. Vesey Stanhope, who holds several livings in the Barchester area, has spent the last twelve years in Italy. Summoned back to Barchester by Dr. Proudie through Mr. Slope, he shows little interest in the political or ecclesiastical affairs of Barchester.

Mrs. Stanhope

Mrs. Stanhope, Dr. Stanhope's wife, is primarily concerned with fashion and her personal appearance.

Charlotte Stanhope

Charlotte Stanhope, the eldest daughter of the Stanhopes, is known for her efficient and intelligent management of her family’s affairs. She is a friend of Eleanor and encourages her brother Bertie to propose to Eleanor.

La Signora Madeline Vesey Neroni

La Signora Madeline Vesey Neroni, née Stanhope, is the celebrated beauty of the Stanhope...