Alceste The misanthrope who is in love with the flirtatious Célimène 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 Célimène and who lodges a complaint against Alceste for criticizing a poem he has written.
Célimène 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 Célimène's who admires Alceste for his honesty.
Arsinoé A lady past her prime who tries to intervene in Célimène 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 Célimène.
