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Helen
The play’s heroine, who in some editions of the play is referred to as Helena. The orphan daughter of a great doctor, she is the ward of the Countess of Rossillion and hopelessly in love with the Countess’s son, Bertram. Her good qualities are attested to by nearly every character in the play, and events prove her a resourceful and determined woman who is not easily discouraged by setbacks.
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Bertram
The Count of Rossillion since the death of his father, and the Countess’s only son. A handsome, well-liked young man, he proves to be an excellent soldier, but a cad in his relationship with Helen, whom he unwillingly marries and quickly abandons.
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Countess
The mother of Bertram, the mistress of Rossillion, and Helen’s guardian. She is a wise, discerning old woman who perceives Helen’s worth and rejoices when she marries Bertram. When Bertram treats Helen badly, the Countess is quick to condemn his behavior.
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King of France
Bertram’s liege lord. He is deathly ill when the play begins, and Helen cures him with one of her late father’s medicines. Like the Countess, he loves Helen and is appalled by Bertram’s behavior.
Lafew
An old French nobleman. A wise and discerning man, he offers advice to the King and is friendly with the Countess.
Parolles
A companion of Bertram. He is a coward, a liar, and a braggart who pretends to be a great soldier when he is nothing of the sort. He is eventually exposed and disgraced.
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First Lord
A genial French nobleman named Dumaine. He serves in the Florentine army and becomes friends with Bertram. Aware of Parolles’s treacherous character, he and his brother, the Second Lord, plot to expose him for what he is.
Second Lord
The First Lord Dumaine’s brother, similar in character and also a friend to Bertram.
Diana
A young virgin in Florence, whom Bertram attempts to seduce. She assists Helen in tricking him into sleeping with his lawful wife.
Widow
Diana’s mother.
Mariana
A woman of Florence.
Duke of Florence
The ruler of Florence. Many French lords (including Bertram, Parolles, and the Lords Dumaine) volunteer to fight for him.
Fool
An old servant of the Countess. Also known as a “Clown” in some editions, he serves as a messenger and enjoys coarse, sexual humor.
Steward
Another servant of the Countess.
