Willmore is a reckless and charismatic English cavalier serving as a sea captain for the exiled Prince Charles II. Granted a brief shore leave in Naples during the Carnival season, he aims to seduce as many women as possible before returning to his ship. His impulsive behavior frequently complicates the plans of his friends.

Hellena is a young Spanish noblewoman raised in a convent and expected to take her vows as a nun once Lent begins. She rebels against this predetermined fate, wishing to experience romance and adventure instead. Disguised during Carnival, she actively pursues her own desires rather than submitting to the authority of her male relatives.

Florinda is a Spanish noblewoman who deeply resents being treated as a tradable commodity by her father and brother. Though more traditionally obedient than her sister Hellena, she reaches her breaking point when faced with arranged marriages to men she despises. She sneaks out in disguise during Carnival to take control of her own romantic future.

Don Pedro is a Spanish nobleman acting as the head of his household while his father is out of town. He expects strict obedience from his sisters, treating their futures as assets to secure social and financial advantages for the family. He moves confidently through Naples, assuming his high status grants him absolute authority over his dependents.

Belvile is an exiled English colonel who lost his wealth and status following the defeat of the monarchy. Now working as a mercenary, he lacks the social standing necessary to openly court the woman he loves. He maintains a noble, serious demeanor that contrasts heavily with the reckless behavior of his cavalier friends.

Ned Blunt is a wealthy, foolish Englishman from the countryside who maintained his estate by staying in the good graces of the English Commonwealth. He acts arrogant and overly confident with women, oblivious to the fact that his more sophisticated friends secretly despise him. He is easily swayed by flattery and eager for a romantic conquest.

Angellica Bianca is a famous, highly sought-after Venetian courtesan residing in an opulent home in Naples. Having previously served as the mistress to a wealthy Spanish general, she now commands an enormous monthly fee for her companionship. She approaches her profession with clear-eyed pragmatism, actively guarding herself against the vulnerabilities of romance.

Frederick is an exiled English gentleman exploring Naples during the Carnival season. He frequently acts as the voice of reason among his rowdy friends, though he is entirely willing to participate in their more cynical schemes. He views romance unsentimentally and eagerly looks forward to seeing Ned Blunt make a fool of himself.

Don Antonio is the wealthy son of the Viceroy in Naples. He operates with the careless confidence of a man who knows his money and title grant him immunity from most consequences. He shows little interest in his arranged betrothal, preferring to spend his time and wealth pursuing famous courtesans.

Valeria is a young Spanish noblewoman and the cousin of Florinda and Hellena. She serves as an eager accomplice in their plans to escape their restrictive household. She is brave, resourceful, and entirely willing to bend the rules to help her family find happiness.

Lucetta is a cunning sex worker operating during the Carnival in Naples. She uses flattery and the pretense of being a married woman of quality to manipulate wealthy, gullible men. She operates as part of a coordinated team with her lover and her pimp.

Callis is the governess employed by Don Pedro's family to chaperone and guard Florinda and Hellena. Despite her strict instructions, she harbors a secret desire to experience the Carnival festivities herself, making her susceptible to bribery and persuasion.

Moretta is Angellica Bianca's maid and fiercely pragmatic advisor. She constantly reminds her mistress to prioritize financial gain over emotional attachment, viewing love as a destructive disease that ruins a courtesan's career.

Stephano is a servant in Don Pedro's household. He follows his master's orders closely, running errands and delivering messages throughout Naples during the chaotic Carnival season.

Sancho is Lucetta's pimp and accomplice. He helps coordinate the logistical aspects of her schemes, leading her targets into carefully prepared traps.

Philippo is Lucetta's lover and partner. He actively encourages her deceptive practices, believing that the smart have every right to take advantage of the foolish.

Don Vincentio is a wealthy, elderly Spanish man chosen by Florinda's father to be her husband. Though he does not directly appear early on, his looming presence and the threat of marriage to him drive Florinda to drastic action.

Diego is Don Antonio's young page. He eagerly encourages his master's pursuit of famous courtesans, showing little regard for his master's impending marriage.

Sebastian is a servant employed by Angellica Bianca. He acts as her muscle and messenger, confronting men who disrespect her property and tracking those who cross her.

Biskey is one of Angellica Bianca's servants, tasked with running errands and managing the crowds that gather outside her home.