A professor and philologist who previously traveled to Mars. He is an honest man tasked by the angelic eldila to travel to the planet Perelandra in an open casket. His expertise in languages aids him in communicating with extraterrestrial beings, preparing him for the intense ideological battles he faces on the new world.

A brilliant Earth physicist who operates on extreme ego and ambition. He views himself as the ultimate conductor of the universe's forward motion, dismissing traditional morality. His sudden arrival on Venus introduces a dangerous ideological threat to the uncorrupted planet.

A green-skinned, innocent humanoid woman who inhabits the watery world of Perelandra. She lives in complete harmony with her environment and desires only to follow the will of her creator. She approaches new concepts with curiosity rather than fear, making her a target for outside influences.

The supreme creator and divine authority over the solar system. He issues commands to the eldila and the inhabitants of Perelandra, directing the moral and physical order of the universe. He communicates through inner feelings and angelic messengers, maintaining a strict but purposeful set of rules for his creations.

A loyal friend to Ransom who serves as the narrator of the story. He battles intense paranoia during the blackout conditions of World War II, nearly turning back from his visit. He is tasked with sealing Ransom into a space-traveling casket and waiting for his eventual return.

The male counterpart to The Queen on Perelandra. He is currently separated from her as they explore their watery world. He represents the masculine half of the planet's humanoids and holds a predetermined role in the planet's future development.

An angelic being known as an eldil, who serves as the Oyarsa or ruler of Mars. He communicates the urgent need for Ransom's journey to Venus and oversees the preparations. He operates entirely outside human conceptions of biology and time.

The angelic Oyarsa who watches over the planet Venus. She is a powerful spiritual entity tasked with guarding the new world until its humanoid inhabitants are ready to assume their proper authority.

A medical doctor and friend to both Lewis and Ransom. He agrees to the unusual task of waiting for Ransom's return from space and helps tend to his physical needs when he eventually arrives.

A skeptical acquaintance of Ransom. He engages in intense intellectual debates following Ransom's return. He represents the rigid, earthly mindset that struggles to comprehend the supernatural experiences Ransom has undergone.