Zadig is a young, rich, and handsome Babylonian who adheres to Zoroastrian ethics. He is intelligent, humble, and strictly rational, frequently preferring scientific observation over tradition and dogma. Despite his virtues and comfortable position in society, his pursuit of happiness is consistently interrupted by unexpected misfortunes and the jealousy of others.

Queen Astarte is the perceptive and widely admired wife of King Moabdar. Bound by her noble station, she possesses an innocent openness that inadvertently complicates her position at court. She is brave and resilient, facing sudden shifts in fortune with a dignified air that commands respect even from those who capture her.

King Moabdar is the ruler of Babylon, initially respected for his sense of justice and willingness to reward true virtue. He values honest counsel and elevates those who show merit. His judgment is ultimately clouded by extreme jealousy, which threatens his relationships and the stability of his kingdom.

Angel Jesrad is a divine emissary who descends to explain the deterministic nature of theology. He challenges human assumptions about free will and justice, declaring that the world's design is dictated by a higher power. He presents a worldview where seemingly cruel events serve a necessary purpose in the grand design.

Semira is a beautiful, wealthy, and well-born Babylonian woman. Initially devoted to Zadig, her loyalty falters when he suffers a severe injury while defending her honor. She is highly conscious of physical appearances and social standing.

Orcan is a rival suitor to Semira who relies heavily on his relation to the chief minister. Lacking charm and relying on brute force, he uses violence to eliminate his romantic competition and secure his desires.

Azora is Zadig's second wife, chosen from the city in hopes of finding a faithful partner. While initially passionate, she soon reveals a frivolous nature and an attraction to other men. Her superficial commitment to her marriage leads her to make shockingly pragmatic decisions when tested.

Cador is a loyal and trusted friend to Zadig in Babylon. He is pragmatic, observant, and well-connected, often using his influence and cunning to help his friends survive treacherous social and political situations.

Hermes is a well-reputed doctor in Babylon who represents the dogmatic nature of professional academics. He famously writes a book to prove that a medical recovery was scientifically impossible rather than admitting his own prognosis was incorrect.

Arimazes is an ugly, rancorous, and boring neighbor who is commonly referred to by his nickname, Green Eyes. Consumed by envy over the popularity and intellect of others, he seizes any opportunity to sabotage his rivals and ruin their reputations at court.

Madam Green Eyes is the frustrated wife of the jealous Arimazes. Seeking relief from her husband's cruelty, she looks for romantic attention elsewhere but quickly turns vindictive when her advances are ignored.

Setoc is an honest and sensible Arabian merchant who initially deals in the slave trade. He is pragmatic but open-minded enough to let his traditional religious beliefs be challenged by the wisdom of his servant. He values intellect and cleverness over rigid tradition.

Almona is a beautiful, young Arabian widow who faces intense social pressure to participate in a dangerous and fatal religious tradition. She is persuaded to choose life and proves herself to be exceptionally clever. She uses her allure and resourcefulness to outwit corrupt religious officials.

Missouf is an Egyptian woman whose striking physical resemblance to Babylonian royalty causes immense confusion. Her capricious and cruel nature becomes apparent when she gains social power. She manipulates those around her to indulge in petty and tyrannical whims.

Argobad is the chief of a gang of robbers operating in the borderlands. Driven by a belief that the world's wealth belongs to everyone, he aggressively seizes his share. He is a man of contradictions, acting ruthlessly in battle while remaining generous and merry with his comrades.

The Fisherman is a former cheesemonger from Babylon who lost his business, wife, and home following the sudden flight of his noble clients. His overwhelming despair serves as a dark reflection of the struggles with fortune and divine justice.

Lord Ogul is a gluttonous nobleman who owns a castle and keeps a harem of slaves. His excessive eating habits cause severe health issues, which he attempts to cure with magical remedies rather than addressing his lifestyle choices.

Itobad is a vain, clumsy, and arrogant Babylonian nobleman. Surrounded by sycophantic servants, he mistakenly believes himself to be highly skilled and resorts to deceit to claim victories he did not earn.

Prince Otames is a skilled and honorable combatant who participates in the Babylonian tournament. He fights bravely and gracefully accepts the outcome when bested by a superior opponent.

Archimage Yebor is a strict religious authority in Babylon. He aggressively pursues those who violate obscure or illogical theological laws, showing a rigid adherence to dogma over common sense and mercy.