A young, enslaved African American woman living in Boston who rapidly develops into a published poet. Despite physical frailties like chronic asthma, she possesses an extraordinary intellect, mastering complex subjects including Latin, Greek, mathematics, and Christian theology. She uses her rigorous formal education and deep religious faith to gently but firmly point out the hypocrisy of American slavery to her white contemporaries.

A wealthy Boston merchant who buys a young enslaved girl as a domestic gift for his wife. He notices the child's unusual intelligence and allows her to study apart from the other enslaved people in the household. He eventually grants Phillis her legal freedom following the successful release of her book.

The wife of John Wheatley who takes a direct interest in the young enslaved girl living in her home. She personally ensures Phillis learns to read, write, and study the Bible, treating her differently than the other household staff. When colonial publishers reject Phillis's manuscript, she actively seeks out English aristocrats to finance the project.

The son of John and Susanna Wheatley. He acts as an escort for Phillis during her transatlantic trip, helping her safely reach London. His presence helps facilitate introductions between the young poet and influential British society members.

A freed enslaved man working as a grocer who marries the famous poet. His financial struggles lead to severe debts, eventually resulting in his imprisonment and leaving his family in dire poverty.

The commander of the transatlantic slave ship that brings Phillis to the American colonies. He disobeys direct orders from his employer by purchasing a young female child instead of able-bodied adult men.

The wealthy owner of the ship that captures and transports Phillis. He operates a slaving business and gives explicit instructions to avoid purchasing women or children, an order his crew ignores.

A wealthy British aristocrat with considerable social influence. She uses her position to act as a patron, providing the necessary financial backing to get a controversial book of poetry published when others refuse.

A prominent British politician and aristocrat. He offers crucial patronage to ensure the publication of Phillis's work, and his political stances provide the poet with hope for the end of American slavery.

An educated, enslaved man who works as a preacher and poet. He closely follows Phillis's career but worries that her exposure to classical literature has overly influenced her work with non-Christian concepts.