Pélléas
Grandson of the King of Allemonde. He welcomes Golaud and his new wife despite his desire to take a trek away from the kingdom to visit a dying friend. The decision to delay this journey ignites the wick of tragedy.
Mélisande
Strangely waif-like beautiful maiden with long flowing hair which Pélléas purposely tangles around a tree and by which an enraged Golaud will drag her across the ground. After giving birth to a daughter, she dies.
Golaud
The oldest grandson of Arkël and the half-brother of Pélléas with whom his wife Mélisande is having an affair. Golaud’s growing suspicion and increasing paranoia is the emotional center of the story which drives the narrative to its inevitable violent confrontation.
Yniold
Golaud’s son whom he enlists to spy on his wife and half-brother. Although he seems aware of what is actually happening, his reports to his father are ambiguous, which only further intensifies Golaud’s jealous suspicions.
Genevieve
Mother to Pélléas and Golaud and daughter of Arkel
