Simon Eyre

Simon Eyre, the shoemaker of the play’s title, becomes Lord Mayor of London. He is a generous but stern mentor to the journeymen he employs. Simon’s intervention smoothes the course of true love for Rowland/Hans and Rose as he helps remove their families’ opposition. Even as mayor, he keeps a temporary shoe business going. He is cheery and merry throughout the story. He is based upon a real historical figure of the same name—a local London merchant who eventually became Lord Mayor in the 1300s.

Margery Eyre

Margery is Simon Eyre’s earthy, outspoken wife. A loyal supporter of her now-illustrious husband, she encourages him to be more refined, as befits his position.

Rowland Lacy/Hans

Rowland Lacy is a young nobleman who loves Rose Otley. Despite his high status, he learned shoemaking when he ran short of money while traveling in Germany. He assumes the identity of Hans, a Dutch journeyman, and joins Eyre’s workshop as a scheme to win Rose’s hand despite his uncle’s opposition. Funnily, Rowland thinks Rafe ought to complete his duty in war despite having a new wife, Jane, who he does not want to leave. Rowland misses the irony here of his disguised shoemaking endeavor for Rose’s hand. Speculating in cargo, he enriches Simon, which enables the shoemaker to begin his political career.

Sir Hugh Lacy

Hugh Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, is Rowland’s domineering uncle. Although Sir Roger agrees to oppose Rowland and Rose’s marriage, Lacy is offended to learn the mayor thinks his nephew is unworthy. He is also referred to as Lincoln due to his title.

Sir Roger Otley

Roger Otley is the Lord Mayor of London at the play's outset. Having chosen Rose’s future husband, he is upset that she prefers Rowland and confines her to their home. He argues with Lacy over the future match.

Rose Otley

Rose Otley, Sir Roger’s daughter, is the primary love interest. The rocky road of her courtship with Rowland forms a large part of the plot. She and Rowland eventually marry despite their turmoil throughout the play.

Hammond

Rose rejects her suitor, Hammond, who then pursues and deceives Jane Damport. He is villainous and antagonistic, concerned with financial affairs and the allure of attractive women rather than their individualistic substance. His attempts to woo both Rose and Jane are ultimately rejected, painting him as deceitful and superficial.

Rafe/Ralph Damport

Rafe Damport (sometimes referred to as Ralph) is a journeyman in Eyre’s shop. He is the more serious foil to Fink and Hodge, two comical but loyal journeymen. Rafe’s military service in France creates one plot twist, as his wife thinks him dead and remarries Hammond after being deceived. His return and their subsequent reunion, aided by the other two workers, leads to the resolution.

Jane Damport

Jane is Damport’s wife; her confusion over his death leads to her taking solace from Hammond’s proposal. She remains committed to Rafe, however, and returns to him when she finds out he is actually alive.

Sybil

Sybil is Rose’s maid. She helps Rose and Hans/Rowland meet secretly and warns them when people approach, swearing to her mistress she will find a way to have them married. It is Sybil who announces the elopement of Rose and Hans.