Gorboduc

Gorboduc (gohr-BOH-duhk) is the king of ancient Britain. For many years, he ruled his kingdom with wisdom, but a fateful decision to divide the realm between his two sons against his advisors' counsel led to disaster. As a result, tragedy befalls both his family and country. Gorboduc only recognizes the gravity of his mistake upon learning about the untimely and unnatural deaths of his sons. Overcome with remorse, he realizes that the human experience dictates he must grieve; the patience his counselors advised is a divine trait beyond mortal reach. Ultimately, he meets a brutal end at the hands of his people, who fall into disorder and chaos due to the disruption of the natural order of governance and succession.

Videna

Videna (vee-DAY-na) is the queen and Gorboduc's devoted wife. She shows a clear partiality towards her elder son, Ferrex, and disagrees with the king's decision to split the kingdom, foreseeing the disastrous consequences. Her intuition warns her of Porrex's envy and pride, which later culminate in fratricide. The murder of Ferrex horrifies Videna, prompting her to disown and curse Porrex. Driven by a desire for retribution, she exacts a gruesome revenge on her younger son.

Ferrex

Ferrex (FEHR-ehks) is the elder son of Gorboduc and Videna, favored by his mother. Unlike his brother, Porrex, Ferrex demonstrates more resistance and seeks guidance from counselors who advise him to amass an army as a safeguard against his brother’s ambitious jealousy. This defensive move, unfortunately, incites Porrex's aggression, leading to a fatal conflict.

Porrex

Porrex (POHR-ehks), the younger brother of Ferrex, is easily swayed by sycophants who convince him that Ferrex aims to usurp his rule. Incensed by the knowledge that his brother is preparing for battle, Porrex retaliates violently by invading Ferrex’s territory and ultimately killing him. When he returns to his parents, he finds no solace in their disapproval. Gorboduc dismisses his justification of the murder as self-defense, and Videna, in particular, becomes outraged, resulting in Porrex's death at her hands.

Arostus

Arostus serves as a canny counselor to Gorboduc. He initially endorses the king's plan to distribute the kingdom between his sons, believing they could develop into wise rulers under parental tutelage. Following the tragic demise of the princes, Arostus reflects on the fickle nature of human life but finds his philosophical musings provide no solace to the despondent king.

Philander

Philander is another advisor in Gorboduc’s court. He attempts to moderate Porrex's growing ambition and anger. Despite not foreseeing the inevitable conflict spurred by dividing the kingdom, he asserts that the princes should learn governance from their father's example. He cautions against disrupting the natural order by prematurely transferring power, suggesting it "corrupts the state of minds and things."

Eubulus

Eubulus, Gorboduc's devoted secretary, ardently beseeches the king to maintain the kingdom's unity for the welfare of its citizens, warning that "divided reigns do make divided hearts." He predicts the dissatisfaction and rivalry that will arise between the two princes. After the deaths of the king and queen, Eubulus advises quashing the popular revolt quickly, emphasizing that subjects should not rebel against their ruler for any reason. Upon hearing of Fergus’ uprising, he laments the prophecy of civil strife until the rightful heir regains the throne.

Dordan

Dordan, a wise counselor to Ferrex, endeavors to quell the prince's frustration over losing half his kingdom. He offers guidance to help Ferrex navigate the challenges posed by his father's divisive decree.

Hermon

Hermon, along with Tyndar , serves as a flattery-driven parasite to the princes. They manipulate their masters’ ambitions and resentments, fueling the animosity that escalates into their...