Scarlet Sister Mary · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in Scarlet Sister Mary by Julia Peterkin.
Mary Pinesett
major
Also known as Scarlet Sister Mary, Sister Mary, Mary
The protagonist, a young woman navigating love, faith, and independence in a Gullah community.
July Pinesett
major
Also known as July, Old Paupa July, Dat July
Mary's husband, whose absence and return shape much of her journey.
Budda Ben
supporting
Also known as Budda, Crippled Budda Ben, Ben
A wise, crippled elder who offers counsel and spiritual guidance.
Maum Hannah
supporting
Also known as Hannah, X Maum Hannah, XX Maum Hannah
An older matriarchal figure in the community, often advising Mary.
Unex
supporting
Also known as Blessed little Unex, baby Unex, little Unex
Mary's young child, a source of joy and responsibility.
Andrew
supporting
Also known as Cun Andrew
A community member and occasional helper to Mary.
Brer Dee
supporting
Also known as old Brer Dee, Doll, Kind old Brer Dee
An elderly man who shares stories and wisdom.
Cinder
supporting
A young woman in the community, friend to Mary.
June
supporting
A community member involved in local events.
Daddy Cudjoe
supporting
Also known as Daddy, old Daddy Cudjoe, Poor Daddy Cudjoe, Old Daddy Cudjoe
An elder known for his storytelling and folk wisdom.
Seraphine
supporting
A spirited woman in the community, often involved in gossip.
Keepsie
minor
A local man with a minor role in village life.
Si May
minor
Also known as May, Si May - e
A community member, possibly a relative of Mary.
Auntie
minor
Also known as Looka Auntie
An older woman who interacts with Mary occasionally.
Big Boy
minor
A young man in the community, known for his strength.
Emma
minor
Also known as little Emma
A child or young woman in the village.
Jedus
minor
A local figure, possibly a nickname for Jesus in dialect.
Reverend Duncan
minor
A preacher who leads church services in the community.
Black Annie
minor
Also known as Black Annie Moore, Little Nan, Nan, lil Nan
A woman with a troubled past, briefly mentioned.
Honey
minor
A minor character, possibly a child or nickname.
Maum Lou
minor
Also known as Lou
An elderly woman in the community.
Tom
minor
A man mentioned in passing in village affairs.
Juba
minor
Also known as Juba - lee
A name referenced in songs or stories.
Gabriel
minor
Also known as The angel Gabriel
Biblical figure mentioned in religious context.
