Guildenstern is an intellectual man summoned alongside his childhood friend Rosencrantz to Elsinore. He possesses an analytical nature, frequently attempting to rationalize the bizarre phenomena around him, such as a coin repeatedly landing on heads. He relies on logic as a defense against fear, which often leads to visible frustration when confronted with the irrationality of his situation.

Rosencrantz is a carefree, pragmatic man who accepts unusual situations with less anxiety than his companion. He prefers simple games and relies heavily on Guildenstern for direction and reassurance. He frequently forgets details, occasionally including his own name, acting as the more submissive but comforting half of the duo.

The Player is the self-aware leader of the Tragedians, a traveling theater troupe. He possesses a confident understanding of his environment, often speaking as though he recognizes the scripted nature of reality. He directs his company with a pragmatic view of entertainment, willing to blur the lines between theatrical performance and life.

Hamlet is the Prince of Denmark and a childhood friend to both Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. His seemingly erratic behavior prompts the King to summon his old friends to observe him. He exhibits moments of sharp clarity that he describes as a sane madness, leaving his observers constantly confused about his mental state.

Claudius is the King of Denmark, who has recently usurped the throne and married his predecessor's wife. He holds ultimate authority over the court at Elsinore and sets the plot in motion by summoning Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. He expects strict obedience and relies on others to act as his agents.

Gertrude is the Queen of Denmark and Hamlet's mother, now married to Claudius. She expresses maternal concern for her son's bizarre transformation and hopes that the arrival of his childhood friends will draw him out of his melancholy state.

Polonius is the elderly advisor to King Claudius and an active member of the Danish court. He involves himself in the royal family's business and attempts to diagnose the cause of Hamlet's madness, believing it to be rooted in romantic infatuation.

Ophelia is Polonius's daughter and a member of the court at Elsinore. She is on the receiving end of Hamlet's erratic behavior and distress, serving as a focal point for the court's theories regarding the Prince's apparent madness.

Alfred is a young boy traveling as a member of the Tragedians theater troupe. He is utilized by the Player to perform female roles, including queenly figures in the troupe's plays and silent pantomimes.