Zuleika Dobson
Zuleika is a charismatic and alluring woman who seems to have a bewitching effect on every man who crosses her path. Her beauty is undeniable, but there is something more to her that draws people in. She is intelligent, witty, and has a dark sense of humor. Her love life is complicated, as she is only interested in men who don't love her back. She is a master manipulator and has a secret, darker side that only a select few are privy to.
Duke of Dorset
The Duke is a wealthy and powerful man who falls hopelessly in love with Zuleika. He is accustomed to getting everything he wants, but she is a challenge. He is obsessed with her and will go to great lengths to win her over, including vowing to commit suicide if she doesn't reciprocate his feelings. He is also profoundly superstitious and believes in the power of signs and omens.
Katie Batch
Katie is a stunningly beautiful woman who is often overshadowed by Zuleika's charisma. She is the daughter of the Duke's landlady and therefore has insider knowledge of his true motivations for pursuing Zuleika. She is kind-hearted and empathetic, but also cunning and willing to use her knowledge to her advantage.
Noaks
Noaks is a poor and unremarkable student at Oxford. He is one of the few men on campus who is not smitten with Zuleika, which earns her curiosity and interest. He is hopelessly in love with Katie, but believes that his feelings are unrequited. He is sensitive and introspective, and his inability to win over Katie drives him to despair.
The Warden of Judas College
The Warden is a respected academic and the grandfather of Zuleika. He is proud of his granddaughter's beauty and intelligence but also recognizes the danger she poses to the young men at Oxford. He is wise and observant and has a deep understanding of human nature. His relationship with Zuleika is complicated, as he is proud of her accomplishments and concerned for her well-being.