Densu is an orphan who feels out of place in his society. He finds himself at a crossroads of life, unsure of his path. He desires to hold on to his values in a society in which people strive for power.

Ababio is Densu's guardian who wishes to exploit Densu's talents. He urges Densu to serve him and his white proprietors.

Damfo is a healer with a talent for restoring those who suffer from physical and psychological impairments. His goal is to achieve "Ebibirman," a unified community of black people based on kinship. At the end of the novel, his daughter Ajoa is engaged to Densu.

Asamoa Nkwanta is an Asante general suffering from depression after the murder of his nephew Appia. Damfo struggles to relieve Asamoa of this illness. He is also hesitant to help Asamoa because of his connection to the royal family, who he views as corrupt.

Araba Jesiwa is the mother of Asamoa's murdered nephew, who is maimed in the same attack. She also goes to Damfo to seek help for her depression.

Buntui is a wrestler who serves Densu's guardian Ababio. He kills Appia and attacks Araba Jesiwa.

Sir Garnet Wolseley and Captain Glover are officers in the British military who enforce an oppressive administrative campaign.

Efua Kobri is the queen of the Asante people who encourages her son King Kofi Karikari to make peace with the white men.

Esuman is a corrupt former healer who abandoned the practice in order to make personal gains in town.