Doña Perfecta Polentinos

Doña Perfecta Polentinos (DOHN-yah pehr-FEHK-tah poh-lehn-TEE-nohs) stands as one of the novel's central figures, representing the entrenched values of conservative, provincial Spanish life. She embodies reactionary traditionalism, regional governance, and a form of neo-Catholicism marked by religious intolerance and deep hypocrisy. Residing in Orbajosa, a southern Spanish town, she initially appears to support the union between her daughter, Rosario, and her nephew, José "Pepe" Rey. However, she becomes his fierce adversary when Pepe's modern, secular ideas clash with her rigid beliefs. Perfecta meticulously plots against him, enlisting the help of local church authorities, and ultimately orders his murder to protect her way of life and preserve her family's reputation. Perfecta's story culminates in a tragic irony, as she spends her remaining days in zealous religious observance, attempting to atone for her sins through self-imposed punishment and martyrdom.

José “Pepe” Rey

José “Pepe” Rey (hoh-SEH PEH-peh rreh), hailing from Madrid, is an emblem of the new Spain: progressive, free-thinking, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. As a well-traveled and articulate engineer, he contrasts sharply with the conservative values of Orbajosa. His arrival in the town at his father's behest introduces a modern ideology that is met with resistance, particularly from Doña Perfecta, his aunt. Pepe's outspoken critiques of the church and local customs, although well-intentioned, are seen as offensive and tactless, leading to his alienation. Despite these challenges, he and Rosario fall deeply in love, planning to elope. However, Pepe's inability to navigate the deeply ingrained traditions and suspicions of Orbajosa's residents results in his tragic demise, orchestrated by Doña Perfecta, and marking him as a martyr for progress.

Rosario

Rosario (rroh-SAHR-ee-oh), the daughter of Doña Perfecta, embodies the tension between tradition and modernity. Although initially docile and obedient to her mother, her love for Pepe sparks a quiet rebellion. As her affection for him deepens, she musters the courage to defy Perfecta and plot an escape with Pepe. Tragically, Pepe's murder shatters her spirit and sanity, leaving her mentally incapacitated and committed to a sanatorium. Rosario's plight is a somber reflection of the novel’s broader commentary on the destructive power of rigid traditions and the suppression of youthful hope.

Don Inocencio

Don Inocencio (dohn ee-noh-SEHN-see-oh), as the local canon, stands as an influential figure in Orbajosa. Partnering with Doña Perfecta, he cunningly manipulates religious doctrine to further his own interests and those of the church. His motivations extend beyond ideology; he seeks to secure a marriage between his great-nephew Jacinto and Rosario, thus securing financial and social gain. Inocencio's strategic provocations against Pepe, inciting him to speak out against the church, serve to alienate him from the community. This calculated antagonism underscores Inocencio's role as both an enforcer of tradition and a player in the novel's tragic events, exposing the irony in his seemingly virtuous name.

María Remedios

María Remedios (mah-REE-ah reh-MEH-dee-ohs) functions as a devoted ally to Don Inocencio, her uncle. As his housekeeper, she actively conspires to promote her son Jacinto's courtship of Rosario, aligning herself against Pepe. Her efforts are driven by a desire for familial advancement, ensuring that her son secures a prosperous match. María's machinations contribute to the network of opposition against Pepe, demonstrating the pervasive influence of self-interest and tradition in Orbajosa.

Jacinto

Jacinto (hah-SEEN-toh), María Remedios’ son, is an ambitious lawyer with his sights set on marrying Rosario. His intention aligns perfectly with his mother’s and Don Inocencio’s plans, as he stands to benefit greatly both socially and financially from the union. As a representative of legal and moral complicity, Jacinto's aspirations reflect the societal norms that prioritize advantageous marriages over genuine affection, further complicating the tensions between tradition and change.

Caballuco

Caballuco (kah-bah-YEW-koh), a fierce regional guerrilla fighter, embodies the staunch opposition to external influences within Orbajosa. His antipathy towards outsiders fuels his willingness to execute Doña Perfecta's orders, culminating in the murder of Pepe. As a symbol of parochial loyalty and resistance, Caballuco’s actions highlight the novel’s exploration of insularity and the lengths to which individuals will go to preserve a threatened way of life.