Goodman Brown is a young Puritan man living in 17th-century Salem village. Newly married for three months, he maintains a strong devotion to his religious beliefs and community values. A keen curiosity drives him to leave the safety of his home and venture into the dark forest, though he continuously tries to reassure himself of his own righteousness. He views his family and local clergy as models of perfect virtue.

A mysterious man of about fifty years old who bears an unsettling physical resemblance to Goodman Brown. He wears ordinary, casual attire but carries a remarkable twisted staff that looks like a large black snake. Claiming a long history of friendship with Brown's father and grandfather, he uses his worldly knowledge and calm demeanor to encourage Brown to walk deeper into the woods.

Faith is Goodman Brown's young wife, characterized by the playful pink ribbons she wears in her hair. She embodies domestic security and religious innocence within the strict Puritan community. Her presence anchors her husband's moral compass, and he frequently relies on the thought of her to maintain his courage in the dark.

An older, highly respected "goodwife" in Salem village. She taught Goodman Brown his catechism when he was a boy, cementing her status as a primary representative of his religious education. Brown considers her a paragon of Christian virtue and moral uprightness.

A prominent church official and magistrate in Salem village. He enforces the strict Puritan values of the community and represents the institutional religious authority that guides the daily lives of the villagers.

The primary religious leader of Salem village. He delivers the weekly sermons and stands as the ultimate spiritual authority for Goodman Brown. His word is treated as law by the devout members of his congregation.