The narrator of the poem is an individual who accidentally discovers a divine scene in a natural setting. Deeply moved by the beauty of the neglected goddess Psyche, the speaker decides to become her dedicated priest. Using the power of their creative imagination, they construct an internal sanctuary for her worship, choosing to honor her from within their own mind.

Psyche is the Greek goddess of the soul and mind. Originally a beautiful mortal princess, her fame provokes the anger of Venus, leading to a series of difficult earthly trials. Because she is a late arrival to the Olympian hierarchy, she lacks the traditional temples, altars, and choirs dedicated to older gods. She must endure hardship and sorrow before she can secure her place in the divine order.

The winged god of love, Cupid is the son of Venus. He visits Psyche under the cover of darkness, instructing her never to look at his face. He serves as the embodiment of divine love that the human soul continually seeks out.

Venus is the powerful goddess of love and beauty. Feeling threatened by humanity neglecting her shrines, she attempts to ruin the young mortal woman's life. When her initial plots fail, she assigns Psyche a series of seemingly impossible tasks out of pure jealousy.

The supreme ruler of the gods on Mount Olympus. He holds the authority to grant immortality and confirm official status within the divine hierarchy.

Proserpina is the goddess of the underworld. She possesses a special beauty ointment that Venus demands Psyche retrieve as part of her impossible tasks.

The ferryman of the River Styx in the underworld. He requires a coin as payment to transport souls across the dark waters of the dead.

The three-headed watchdog of the underworld. He guards the domain of the dead and requires a specific distraction, such as a honeycake, to allow living beings safe passage.

The mythological daughter of Cupid and Psyche. Her name translates to Pleasure, representing the divine culmination of love and the human soul.