Mary Barton

Mary Barton, as the protagonist, embodies the journey of Victorian femininity amid the harsh realities of her social class. She is the ambitious daughter of a laborer, dreaming of a life beyond her designated role of managing the household. Her aspiration involves marrying into a higher social class, inspired by her aunt Esther's story, though she is unaware that Esther's life has devolved into prostitution after running away with a soldier. Mary initially dismisses the attentions of Jem Wilson, a young man from her class, as she becomes entangled with Henry Carson, the son of a factory owner. This involvement catalyzes the narrative's central tragedy when Carson is murdered, and Jem is accused of the crime. Throughout the novel, Mary evolves, balancing her ambitions with the reality of her social standing.

John Barton

John Barton, Mary’s father, is a character of significant importance, nearly as pivotal as Mary herself. As a working man, his experiences, particularly the loss of his son Tom to malnutrition, have left him embittered. The death of his wife exacerbates his descent into a cynical outlook. John's lack of attention in nurturing Mary and his tendency to indulge her stem from his despair over their class status, inadvertently fueling Mary's ambitions. His hardships and subsequent actions underpin much of the novel’s social critique.

Margaret Jennings

Margaret Jennings is Mary’s best friend and serves as a standard of proper behavior, providing a contrast to Mary. She lives with her grandfather, Job Legh, who himself acts as a positive foil to John Barton. Although Margaret is also a seamstress, unlike Mary, she does not venture out for work. Her devotion to long hours of sewing eventually leads to blindness. Despite this, she and her grandfather avoid destitution through Margaret’s singing talent. As her singing career takes her away from Manchester, her positive influence on Mary diminishes.

Jem Wilson

Jem Wilson, the son of George Wilson, stands out for his heroism early in the novel, notably rescuing his father and another workman from a fire at the Carson Mill. A self-made man, Jem elevates his social status through his education as an engineer. His enduring love for Mary, beginning in childhood, reflects his steadfast nature. He confronts Henry Carson not out of rivalry but to insist that Carson honorably treat Mary. Jem's selflessness is further exemplified during his trial, where he chooses not to expose John Barton's guilt, prioritizing Mary’s welfare over his freedom.

Henry Carson

Henry Carson, the sole heir to the Carson Mill, is characterized by his spoiled and irresponsible demeanor. Unlike his father, Henry's treatment of the factory workers stems from contempt rather than ignorance. Initially engaging with Mary as a mere dalliance, he later recognizes genuine affection for her. Nonetheless, his initial perception of Mary as a conquest underscores his self-centered nature.

Mr. Carson

Mr. Carson, father of Henry, is portrayed as a neglectful figure in his dealings with the mill workers. His character dramatically shifts following his son's murder, where he becomes consumed by a desire for vengeance, leveraging his power to expedite justice. However, the deathbed confession of John Barton catalyzes a transformation in Mr. Carson, leading him toward reconciliation with the working class. This change reflects the author's vision of a responsible and benevolent patronage towards the lower classes.