·       Pericles: The protagonist of the novel, a brilliant and charismatic statesman who is the leader of Athens. He is married to Aspasia, a beautiful and intelligent courtesan. He is a complex and contradictory character, who is both idealistic and pragmatic. He is determined to make Athens a great city, even if it means making difficult choices.

·       Aspasia: The wife of Pericles, a beautiful and intelligent courtesan. She is a shrewd businesswoman and a gifted political advisor. She is also a loyal and supportive wife, who is determined to help Pericles achieve his goals.

·       Cleon: A powerful and ambitious politician who is Pericles's rival. He is a ruthless and cunning man who is determined to see Pericles defeated.

·       Socrates: A philosopher who is Pericles's friend and advisor. He is a wise and insightful man who is determined to help Pericles make the right decisions.

·       Nicias: A general who is Pericles's friend and advisor. He is a cautious and pragmatic man who is determined to protect Athens from her enemies.

·       Thucydides: A historian who is Pericles's friend and advisor. He is a brilliant and insightful man who is determined to record the events of Pericles's time for posterity.