Yvain

Yvain, the central figure of the romance, is a knight of the Round Table, esteemed for his chivalry and valor. When his cousin Calogrenant shares the tale of his own defeat at a magic spring, Yvain sets out to avenge him. He triumphs over the mysterious knight, thus claiming victory for his family and winning the heart of Lady Laudine de Landuc, the knight's widow. Yvain marries Laudine, but soon departs to partake in tournaments, neglectfully breaking his vow to return within a year. His failure sends him into madness, and he roams the forest, lost to the world and himself. It is only through the aid of a compassionate noble lady that Yvain finds solace and embarks on new quests, which lead him into many heroic and fantastical adventures. As Yvain battles with strength and honor, he earns the moniker "the Knight of the Lion," a tribute to the loyal lion he rescues from a serpent's flames. This beast becomes his steadfast companion, embodying Yvain's journey toward redemption and enlightenment. Ultimately, Yvain's return to the magic spring marks his redemption, as he reconciles with Laudine, proving his fidelity and courage.

Lady Laudine de Landuc

Lady Laudine de Landuc is the widow of the knight Esclados, the original guardian of the magic spring. Despite her initial grief and anger over her husband's death at Yvain's hands, she is swayed by his remorse and marries him. Laudine gifts Yvain a magical ring as a token of her love and allows his departure for tournaments, with the stipulation of his return within a year. Yvain's failure to honor this promise leaves her feeling betrayed, and she sends a maiden to reclaim the ring and denounce Yvain. Influenced by a deceitful knight, she almost condemns her loyal servant Lunete to death. However, through Lunete's prudent counsel, Laudine is ultimately reconciled with Yvain, acknowledging his transformation and renewed commitment.

Lunete

Lunete, a sharp-witted and loyal servant at Lady Laudine's castle, plays a pivotal role in the narrative. She tends to Yvain's injuries after his battle at the spring and persuades Laudine to marry him, despite his having slain her first husband. Lunete's loyalty is tested when Yvain breaks his promise, and Laudine decides to punish her by death. Yvain, disguised as the Knight of the Lion, rescues Lunete from this fate. Grateful and indebted, she orchestrates a reconciliation between Yvain and Laudine, using her eloquence to mend the broken bonds.

King Arthur

King Arthur, though a minor character in the story, embodies the ideals of courtly life and noble leadership. As the ruler of the Round Table, Arthur represents the epitome of chivalry. He grants Yvain permission to embark on his fateful quest at the magic spring and later aids him with the assistance of other knights. Arthur's presence is a constant reminder of the honorable life that Yvain, as a knight, strives to uphold. At the story's start, Arthur is hosting court in Wales, with Queen Guinevere by his side during the Pentecost festivities.

Calogrenant

Calogrenant, Yvain's cousin and a fellow knight of the Round Table, initiates the adventure with his tale of defeat at the hands of the knight who guards the magic spring. This story stirs Yvain to seek vengeance, setting the plot into motion. Calogrenant's humility in sharing his setbacks with the court highlights the values of honesty and integrity among the knights, despite his lingering shame over the event.

Sir Gawain

Sir Gawain, another distinguished knight and nephew to King Arthur, shares close ties with Yvain. Known for his own legendary exploits, Gawain invites Yvain to join him...