Thomas is a shrewd, worldly Saxon nobleman who serves as a church deacon and King Henry II's closest friend. Appointed as the Chancellor of England early in the narrative, he helps the King outmaneuver the English clergy on tax issues. Despite his luxurious and pleasure-loving lifestyle, Thomas harbors a latent moral conscience and questions his identity as a Saxon working for the Norman conquerors.

King Henry is the Norman ruler of England who relies entirely on Thomas Becket for governance, refinement, and emotional support. He is a lustful and heavy-drinking monarch who dislikes the tedious duties of leadership. He views his friendship with Thomas as his only genuine human connection, making him fiercely demanding of Thomas's absolute loyalty.

Gilbert Folliot is the bishop of London and a strict, thin-lipped ecclesiastical leader. He is fiercely protective of the church's wealth and independence from the crown. He views Thomas Becket's appointment as Chancellor as a betrayal, heavily resenting Thomas's willingness to enforce royal laws upon the clergy.

Gwendolen is a Saxon woman and former war captive who serves as Thomas Becket's mistress. She is an accomplished musician who recognizes the moral emptiness in Thomas's worldly lifestyle. Because of her conquered status, she remains highly vulnerable to the whims of the Norman elite, particularly King Henry.

The Queen and the Queen Mother are the neglected wife and mother of King Henry II. They spend their time isolated in the palace, deeply resentful of the King's carousing and his intense reliance on Thomas Becket. They frequently criticize Henry's lack of traditional masculine leadership and view Thomas as a corrupting influence.

King Louis is the pragmatic and good-natured ruler of France. Unlike the impulsive English king, Louis manages his kingdom with a practical understanding of political gamesmanship. He appreciates genuine character and often takes pleasure in frustrating his English rival.

The young monk is a sullen sixteen-year-old Saxon fiercely dedicated to resisting Norman occupation. Caught carrying a concealed weapon, he views violence as a justified response to the subjugation of his people. His youthful zeal catches Thomas's attention, leading to an unexpected mentorship.

The Archbishop of Canterbury is the elderly leader of the English church and a former mentor to Thomas Becket. While other bishops immediately condemn Thomas for enforcing the King's taxes, the Archbishop maintains a measured, cautious approach, believing Thomas is still searching for his true moral center.

Cardinal Zambelli is an Italian church official who operates as a shrewd political strategist in Rome. He views religious sincerity with high suspicion, treating all ecclesiastical affairs as strategic maneuvers rather than matters of faith.

The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church, operating more as a calculating politician than a spiritual guide. He prioritizes the Vatican's institutional power and diplomatic leverage over the genuine religious welfare of his bishops. He readily barters away loyalists if politically expedient.

Henry III is the young son of King Henry II. He is functionally ignored by his father, who claims he cannot even tell his children apart. The boy exists primarily as an instrument for royal succession and is emotionally alienated from the King.