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C. Auguste Dupin
A savvy and learned Parisian who helps the city’s police solve crimes. Dupin uses psychology to foil the plans of a thief and uncover a stolen letter that the police of Paris could not uncover by conventional investigations.
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The Narrator
A friend of Dupin. In awe of Dupin’s brilliance, the narrator faithfully recounts Dupin’s explanations without doubting or challenging him.
Monsieur G——
The prefect of the Paris police. Limited by his conventional police training, Monsieur G—— depends on Dupin’s assistance in peculiarly difficult crimes, and his own general competence highlights Dupin’s superior abilities.
Minister D——
A government official and the thief of the letter. Minister D—— ‘s ability to outwit the police in his crime proves he is a worthy adversary for Dupin.
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The Royal Lady
Most likely the Queen of France (though not specified). Minister D–– has stolen a letter from her that, if revealed, could jeopardize her position with someone important (most likely the King). Minister D–– is using the letter to blackmail her for political favors.
The King
The King of France, referred to by the prefect only as “a personage of most exalted station.” He appears in the story only as a potential threat to the Queen’s position.
