The Wood Beyond the World · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in The Wood Beyond the World by William Morris.
Golden Walter
major
Also known as Walter, Langton, Walter of Langton, Walter Wends, King
A young merchant who embarks on a sea voyage and becomes entangled in a strange, magical land.
The Maid
major
Also known as Maiden
A mysterious and powerful young woman who aids Walter in the Wood Beyond the World.
The Lady
major
Also known as Lady
A sorceress and ruler of the golden house in the wood, who holds Walter captive.
The Old Man
supporting
A wise hermit who gives Walter guidance and information about the strange land.
Bartholomew Golden
minor
Also known as Bartholomew, the Bartholomew
Walter's father, a wealthy merchant who dies early in the story.
Arnold Penstrong
supporting
Also known as Arnold
A shipmaster and loyal friend to Walter, who accompanies him on his voyage.
The Bears
supporting
A tribe of fierce, bear-like warriors encountered by Walter and the Maid.
The Dwarf
supporting
A malevolent dwarf servant of the Lady, who spies on Walter and the Maid.
The King's Son
minor
A prince from a distant land who becomes a rival to Walter.
The Shipmaster
minor
The captain of the Bartholomew, who navigates the storm and new land.
Sir Squire
minor
Also known as Squire
A knight of Stark Wall who serves the new king.
The Reddings
minor
A group of red-clad warriors who attack Walter and the Maid.
Adam
minor
A servant or companion mentioned briefly in the narrative.
Forsooth
minor
A minor character or personification, possibly a herald or speaker.