Alonso Quixano A fifty-year-old hidalgo, the lowest level of gentry, of La Mancha in rural Spain, he has long since given up running his modest estate and has begun selling off some of his property in order to buy books. These books all relate to chivalry, a subject that is about to drive Quixano over the edge of reason, where he will take on the name of Don Quixote de la Mancha. A spavined dray and hack horse, Rosinante, becomes his steed.
Sancho Panza A local laborer who is enlisted to serve the newly dubbed knight, lured principally by the promise of his own island to govern. His primary means of transportation is an ornery mule, Dapple.
Teresa Panza's wife, who runs the household and cares for the couple's two children while Sancho is off in his chivalric pursuits with Quixote.
Aldonza Lorenza A young country girl who barely knows Don Quixote, she nevertheless becomes the newly dubbed knight's womanly ideal.
John Haldudo, the Rich The rich man who, in Quixote's first knightly adventure, is castigated by Quixote for beating his servant-boy.
Andrew A young apprentice whom Quixote attempts to help, in the process causing more trouble.
Antonia Quixote's loving niece, who is conflicted by her desire to keep her uncle safely at home and her wish for the old gentleman to enjoy himself at his new preoccupation.
Muñaton A scholar whom Antonia accuses of stealing Quixote's library
Samson Carrasco A young student from Quixote's village. He believes that by providing Quixote with adventures, he will make the "knight" tire of chivalric pursuits. Carrasco is a key character; he appears in many guises, especially as knights-at-arms, and finally is the cause of Quixote's return home.
