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An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding · Characters

Character guide

Key figures in An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding by David Hume.

  • Narrator

    major

    Also known as myself, our, ourselves

    The philosophical voice guiding the enquiry, often using first-person plural.

  • Epicurus

    minor

    Ancient Greek philosopher referenced for his views on pleasure and the gods.

  • Queen Elizabeth

    minor

    English queen cited in a historical example about political authority.

  • John Locke

    minor

    Also known as Mr. Locke

    Philosopher whose ideas on identity and causation are discussed.

  • Alexander the Great

    minor

    Macedonian conqueror used as an example in arguments about ambition.

  • Quintus Curtius

    minor

    Roman historian cited for his account of Alexander's campaigns.

  • Mademoiselle Thibaut

    minor

    French woman mentioned in a thought experiment about personal identity.

  • Pierre Bayle

    minor

    French philosopher and critic referenced in discussions of skepticism.

  • Adam

    minor

    Biblical first man used as an example in reasoning about experience.

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