Character guide

Unknown

major

Also known as myself

The narrator or focal character, often referred to by pronouns throughout the book.

Jesus Christ

major

Also known as Christ, Jesus, Jesus of Nazareth, the Galilean

Central figure of Christianity, whose life and teachings are the focus of Part II.

Peter

supporting

Also known as the Peter to whom Christ said in forgiveness, the Peter upon whom Christ turned

Apostle of Christ, key figure in the founding of the Church.

Aristotle

supporting

Also known as himself

Ancient Greek philosopher whose ideas are discussed in relation to pagan thought.

Buddha

supporting

Also known as the great Lord Buddha, Gautama

Founder of Buddhism, compared to Christ as a religious figure.

Virgil

minor

Also known as himself

Roman poet, author of the Aeneid, referenced in discussions of mythology.

Muhammad

minor

Also known as mine

Prophet of Islam, mentioned in comparative religious analysis.

Confucius

minor

Also known as the great Confucius

Chinese philosopher, referenced in discussions of moral systems.

Mr. H. G. Wells

supporting

Also known as Mr. Wells

Contemporary author whose views on history are critiqued in the book.

Socrates

minor

Also known as the great Socrates

Greek philosopher, discussed in the context of pagan philosophy.

St. Francis of Assisi

minor

Also known as St. Francis, St. Francis of the flowers

Christian saint known for his love of nature and poverty.

St. Augustine

minor

Also known as Augustine

Early Church father and theologian, referenced in doctrinal discussions.

Plato

minor

Greek philosopher, discussed in relation to ideal forms and pagan thought.

St. Thomas Aquinas

minor

Also known as Aquinas, himself

Medieval theologian and philosopher, cited in arguments about faith and reason.

Julius Caesar

minor

Also known as Julian, Julius

Roman dictator, mentioned in historical comparisons.

Marcus Aurelius

minor

Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, referenced in discussions of pagan virtue.

Napoleon

minor

Also known as himself

French emperor, used as a historical comparison for ambition.

Moses

minor

Biblical prophet and lawgiver, mentioned in context of Jewish history.

Job

minor

Biblical figure known for his suffering and patience, referenced briefly.

Shakespeare

minor

English playwright, mentioned as a cultural touchstone.