Miniver Cheevy is an ordinary man living in the modern era who despises his current reality. He spends his days drinking and losing himself in elaborate daydreams about medieval knights and mythological kings. Unable to accept his own shortcomings, he avoids practical labor and instead blames fate for his lack of success.

The Medici represents a real historical Italian dynasty that ruled Florence and Tuscany. They are famous for their extreme wealth, political power, and scandalous behavior. For Miniver, the family symbolizes an extravagant, sinful life that he wishes he could have experienced firsthand.

Priam is the mythical King of Troy from ancient Greek legends. He belongs to the epic past that Miniver constantly imagines. The king represents the masculine, heroic ideals that Miniver feels are entirely absent from the modern world.

Romance is a personified figure that represents elevated excitement and mystery from past eras. In the modern world, this figure has lost its prestige and dignity. Romance is now depicted as a frivolous character spending a cheap night out on the town.

Art is a personified figure representing classical aesthetics and grand creativity. Once highly valued in ancient society, Art is currently depicted as a homeless vagrant wandering the streets. This figure illustrates the modern era's lack of appreciation for historical beauty.