Philaster

Philaster, the legitimate heir to the Sicilian throne, is beloved by the people and several noblemen who rightfully should be his subjects. Despite this support, he lacks the assertiveness necessary to reclaim his kingdom. His character is reminiscent of a more delicate Hamlet; he describes himself as "a thing born without passion, a faint shadow that every drunken cloud sails over and makes nothing." As a quintessential romantic hero, he yearns for the tranquility of a pastoral life and reacts with intense distress upon suspecting Arethusa’s infidelity. Although he occasionally displays courage, particularly in his defiance against the king and Pharamond, these are mere glimpses of the determination that ultimately leads him to reclaim his kingdom.

The king of Calabria

The king of Calabria is the usurper of Sicily's throne. He rules with an autocratic hand and is quick to anger when his authority is questioned. However, he is wary of Philaster's popularity, which tempers his rage towards the young prince. Similar to many paternal figures in Shakespearean romances, he finds redemption through acknowledging his misdeeds, guided by the virtue and love of Philaster and his own daughter.

Arethusa

Arethusa, the daughter of the king, is betrothed by her father to Pharamond. Displaying the bravery and ingenuity akin to Shakespeare’s Viola and Rosalind, she candidly declares her love for Philaster and conspires with her ladies to reveal Pharamond’s immorality. Though perplexed by accusations against her and Bellario, she remains steadfast in her loyalty to Philaster, even enduring his harshness. Through her efforts, she orchestrates their marriage and ultimately saves Philaster from execution by her father’s command.

Pharamond

Pharamond, the Spanish prince and suitor to Arethusa, is marked by his arrogance and boastfulness, earning the derisive nickname "prince of popinjays" from Philaster. His seduction of Megra, a willing lady-in-waiting, results in the loss of the king's favor, although he nearly regains it following Philaster's mistreatment of Arethusa. His haughty demeanor brings him the disdain of the townspeople during their rebellion, and his rescue comes only through Philaster’s intervention, ultimately sending him back to Spain.

Euphrasia

Euphrasia, the daughter of one of Philaster’s devoted lords, disguises herself as the page Bellario to remain close to the prince, whom she loves in secret. Her loyalty to both Philaster and Arethusa is unwavering, and she resolves to remain by their side, unmarried, once Philaster secures his throne and marries Arethusa.

Dion

Dion, Euphrasia’s father and a Sicilian lord, outwardly shows allegiance to the king but staunchly supports Philaster’s rightful claim to the throne. His loyalty to Philaster makes him susceptible to believing slanderous tales about Arethusa's supposed love for Bellario, a misunderstanding for which he later seeks forgiveness.

Cleremont and Thrasilene

Cleremont and Thrasilene are noblemen who steadfastly support Philaster. Their loyalty plays a crucial role in the unfolding of events, providing the prince with much-needed allies in his quest.

Megra

Megra, a lady-in-waiting to Arethusa, finds herself drawn to any attractive man and eagerly welcomes Pharamond’s advances. In a retaliatory move against the court’s discovery of her dalliances with the Spanish prince, she maliciously slanders Arethusa and Bellario.

Galathea

Galathea, another lady attending Arethusa, is known for her wit and sharpness. She bluntly rejects Pharamond's advancements and criticizes Megra's actions, assisting her mistress in unveiling the prince’s betrayal.

Country Fellow

The Country Fellow is a straightforward rustic. En route to observe the king’s hunt, he stumbles upon Philaster attacking Arethusa and bravely defends her. As a reward, he requests an audience with the king but vows to eschew "gay sights" henceforth.

A Captain

The Captain leads the rebellion against the king. He and his followers subject Pharamond to threats and verbal assaults, reflecting their deep resentment towards the foreign prince.