Agnes Magnusdottir
Agnes Magnusdottir, the protagonist of this historical novel, is a convicted murderer who is sent to live with the family of District Officer Jon Jonsson as she awaits her execution by beheading. The majority of the narrative is focalised through the first-person perspective of Agnes. It is through these passages that we begin to understand more of who Agnes is - and the events that led to the murder of her master and ex-lover, Natan Ketilsson. She is described by a reverend as 'well-spoken', 'educated', but also 'unpredictable'. As a woman in Iceland during the early 1800s, Agnes experiences prejudice and distrust when she demonstrates an intelligence and determination that sets her apart from society's expectations. She also suffers the discrimination of being an illegitimate child born to an unwed mother. As the narrative reaches its climax, the depth of Agnes's suffering is revealed.
Jon Jonsson
Jon Jonsson is the District Officer tasked with providing housing to Agnes until the date of her execution. He does so, taking her into custody on his remote farm, but demonstrates a strong distrust. His suspicion of her is motivated partly by a desire to protect his wife and two daughters, who also live at the farm. Despite the altered perception of Anges that Jon has developed by the novel's resolution, he is powerless to delay her execution.
Natan Ketilsson
Natan Ketilsson, the man that Anges is convicted of murdering, is a dark force within the world of the novel. He is often unpredictable in his responses towards Agnes and is viewed with distrust by many of the Icelanders who know him; some believe him to be a shapeshifter. His dreams, which he believes to be prophetic, act as a metaphor for the strong mythical element running through the narrative.
Sigga
Sigga is the co-accused murderer of Natan Ketilsson. She is described as pretty, but 'simple'. She is also much younger than Agnes. Because of her youth and beauty, a petition is started to pardon her from the death penalty. Her defenders argue that she acted under Agnes' influence. This petition is successful, and she escapes execution. Her character reflects the permitted role of females during this time period - a role that Agnes has rejected and, along with it, any chance of pardon.
Lauga
Lauga, the younger of the two Jonsson daughters, is quick-witted and hostile. She refuses to permit Agnes to consider herself a part of the family in any way. It is not until the novel's conclusion that her resentment gives way.
Steina
Steina, the older of the two Jonsson daughters, is not as intelligent as her younger sister and often makes mistakes in her work around the house and farm. However, she remembers an incident from when she was younger, when she and her family met Agnes on the road and Agnes was kind to them. Because of this, she responds with greater warmth towards Agnes than any of the other family members.
Reverend Toti
Reverend Toti, the young priest tasked with Agnes's spiritual care during the time leading to her execution, is characterised as boyish, inexperienced, and unsure. He finds himself out of his depth with Agnes, but endeavours sincerely to listen to her story and provide her with spiritual guidance. It is only as he begins to take ownership of himself and his role in Agnes's life that he achieves maturity and confidence. He becomes one of Agnes's main confidantes and friends.
Margret Jonsson
Margret, Jon Jonsson's wife, is at first suspicious of Agnes and is reluctant to have her stay at the farm. However, as the novel progresses, Agnes and Margret form a tentative connection. This eventually develops into a relationship of trust. Significantly, it is to Margret that Agnes confesses the truth of the murder. At the novel's conclusion, Margret refers to Agnes as 'my girl'. She becomes a mother-figure to Agnes, providing a resolution to the longing for home that is explored throughout the narrative. Margret is sensitive, timid and wise.
Fridrik
Fridrik is the third co-accused in the case of Natan's murder, and is, like, Agnes, convicted of murder and executed. He is portrayed as cunning and reckless, with violent tendencies. He engages in a romantic relationship with Sigga which arouses Natan's resentment and jealousy.
