Pietro Spina

Pietro Spina is a character driven by an unwavering belief in justice and equality. As a former favored student of Don Benedetto, he feels compelled to transform his fascist society into one that serves all people, particularly the most impoverished. To evade capture due to his revolutionary activities, Spina adopts the guise of an elderly priest named Don Paolo Spada, using iodine to age his appearance. As Don Paolo, he becomes an antiwar activist, working amongst the mountaineers. Despite facing physical hardships and intellectual setbacks, Spina's dedication to his ideals never wavers, illustrating the persistence of good men to fight for their cause, regardless of success.

Don Benedetto

Don Benedetto is depicted as a significant influence in Pietro Spina's life, serving as both a mentor and a father figure. As a socialist in fascist Italy, he represents an intellectual and moral guiding force, encouraging Spina’s revolutionary spirit and commitment to justice.

Bianchina Girasole

Bianchina Girasole is a young woman who views Spina, under his guise as Don Paolo, as a saint. Her life takes a dramatic turn after she survives complications from an abortion, attributing her recovery to Don Paolo's forgiveness. Her story intertwines with that of Alberto Colamartini, whom she seduces, and she eventually becomes a prostitute when dispatched to Rome by Spina to rally against the Abyssinian War.

Cristina Colamartini

Cristina Colamartini's devotion to God reaches the point of self-sacrifice. She is romantically linked to Pietro Spina and ultimately sacrifices her life in an attempt to deliver food to him while he is in hiding. Her story is intertwined with that of her brother, Alberto Colamartini.

Luigi Murica

Luigi Murica is a steadfast ally of Pietro Spina. He shares in Spina's vision of integrating God back into human affairs but meets a tragic end when he is killed by government authorities for supporting Spina's cause.

Doctor Nunzio Sacca

Doctor Nunzio Sacca, an old friend of Pietro Spina, plays a crucial role by locating and aiding Spina during his time of need.

Matelena Ricotta

Matelena Ricotta is the proprietor of the mountain inn that provides refuge for Spina during his escape.

Alberto Colamartini

Alberto Colamartini is Cristina's brother. He is seduced by Bianchina Girasole, and his social standing is notably above that of the Girasole family.

Pompeo

Pompeo, once a reformer and the son of a Fossa chemist, becomes swept up in the war frenzy, almost betraying Spina by revealing his antiwar activities.

Romeo

Romeo is a pivotal figure in the antiwar movement, leading its efforts in Rome until he is ultimately captured.

Uliva

Uliva is a disillusioned character who tragically dies from a bomb explosion while attempting to attack a church filled with government officials.

Marta

Marta is the devoted sister of Don Benedetto, supporting him in his intellectual pursuits and his role as Spina’s mentor.