Age: 50s

A wealthy man and guardian of Agnès, Arnolphe is also known as Monsieur de la Souche. He thinks himself clever and protected from any future unfaithfulness when he has his ward, at age four, confined to a convent until she comes of age, when he plans to marry her. However, his misguided plan leads to some unexpected complications.

Age: 20s

A handsome, young man who falls in love with Agnès, Horace brings Arnolphe in on his plans to steal Agnès away, completely ignorant of Arnolphe’s relationship with and plans for her. He is also the son of Arnolphe’s long-time friend, Oronte.

Age: 20s

The ward of Arnolphe and an innocent young girl, Agnès falls in love with Horace, instead of her guardian, Arnolphe.

Age: 50s+

The protagonist, a wealthy middle-aged head of household who has a demanding mother, a son and daughter of marriageable age, an attractive second wife, and a smart-mouthed servant. Once an able and wise man, Orgon has succumbed to religious zealotry, using morality to exercise power over his family. Orgon is gullible, stubborn, and not very bright.

Age: 35–55

The antagonist, a charlatan who preys on Orgon and his family. Tartuffe has faked holy poverty and religious fervor to attract Orgon’s admiration and succeeded so well that Tartuffe now lives in luxury in Orgon’s house. Tartuffe keeps up his public image with extreme acts of penance and ostentatious charity. In private, he gorges on food and wine and leers at the women in Orgon’s household.

Age: 20–30s+

The maid to Mariane, Orgon’s daughter. Dorine is the least important member of Orgon’s household in terms of social class, but by far the most truthful, clear-headed, and competent. She talks back to her employers and social betters, stating the truth without fear. Dorine is worldly, skeptical, and self-confident. She serves as a foil for her naive, credulous, and insecure master, Orgon, and for his shy, obedient daughter, Mariane.

Age: 20s

Mariane is Orgon’s daughter by his first wife; stepdaughter to Elmire. Mariane is innocent, shy, somewhat naive, and deeply in love with Valère, the man to whom Orgon has promised her in marriage. Mariane is also a dutiful daughter, accustomed to obeying Orgon.

Age: 40s+

Cléante is Elmire’s brother and Orgon’s brother-in-law. Cléante is a frequent visitor at Orgon’s house, enjoying the society of Elmire’s other guests. Cléante is a philosopher and serious thinker, a voice of reason and moderation whose speeches border on the pompous. Cléante dispenses wise thoughts and argues commonsense positions. He approaches crises with caution and so is given to inaction.

Age: 40s+

ELMIRE is Orgon’s second wife and the fond stepmother of Orgon’s son, Damis, and daughter, Mariane. Elmire is a witty and fashionable lady who wears fine clothing and entertains many friends. She is a reasonably religious, virtuous woman, devoted to her husband and stepchildren. But Elmire is also wise to the ways of society. She recognizes the need to avoid scandal and to protect her husband’s family.