Alceste The misanthrope who is in love with the flirtatious Celimene and who believes that people should be completely honest at all times.

Philinte A friend of Alceste’s who can see the frailty in man, and who advises tolerance and reasonableness in human relationships.

Orante A gentleman-about-town who is also in love with Celimene and who lodges a complaint against Alceste for criticizing a poem he has written.

Celimene A beautiful young flirt who enjoys gossiping about everybody and who might be said to epitomize the insincerity of this society.

Eliante A friend and cousin of Celimene’s who admires Alceste for his honesty.

Arsinoe A lady past her prime who tries to intervene in Celimene and Alceste’s relationship.

Acaste A marquis who considers himself to be very fortunate and well-liked by society.

Clitandre Another fop who is also in love with Celimene.