Lorna Doone characters

Appears from the start

A farmer's son from Exmoor who narrates the story from boyhood into adulthood. After his father is killed during a raid blamed on the Doones, John grows into an exceptionally strong but peaceable young man. His loyalty to his family coexists with a private attachment to Lorna, even though she lives among the clan his neighbors fear and hate.

First appears in chapter 10

The young girl John encounters in the secluded valley occupied by the Doones. She is being raised within the outlaw clan but dislikes its violence and lives under close control. Her kindness and loneliness make a lasting impression on John.

First appears in chapter 10

John's widowed mother, who manages the Ridd household and farm after her husband's murder. Practical, devout, and protective of her children, she distrusts any connection with the Doones.

First appears in chapter 10

John's clever younger sister. More observant and bookish than the rest of the household, she often understands the motives and dangers around the family before John does.

First appears in chapter 20

John's warm-hearted younger sister, closely involved in the domestic life of Plover's Barrows. Her future becomes linked with Tom Faggus, despite the risks attached to his outlaw reputation.

First appears in chapter 20

A notorious highwayman and gifted horseman who is nevertheless a trusted friend of the Ridd family. His daring and knowledge of the countryside repeatedly make him a useful ally.

First appears in chapter 25

A Crown officer sent west to investigate the Doones and later the political unrest surrounding Monmouth's cause. He recognizes John's usefulness and courage, though his official plans can draw the Ridd family into danger.

First appears in chapter 25

The strongest and most feared of the younger Doones, violent, possessive, and accustomed to taking what he wants. He regards Lorna as his intended wife and treats John's growing connection with her as a direct challenge.

First appears in chapter 25

The elderly head of the Doone settlement and Lorna's guardian. His authority offers her some protection from the clan's younger men, but age and illness steadily weaken his control.

First appears in chapter 35

A calculating elder of the Doone clan whose influence rests on strategy rather than Carver's physical force. He works to preserve the family's power and is dangerous precisely because he plans beyond the immediate quarrel.

First appears in chapter 35

Lorna's devoted attendant within the Doone valley. She helps Lorna communicate and act despite the clan's surveillance, accepting considerable personal risk.

First appears in chapter 35

John's wealthy great-uncle, a shrewd and suspicious businessman. Family duty draws John into protecting him, while his household introduces John to his spirited daughter Ruth.

First appears in chapter 40

Reuben Huckaback's daughter and John's cousin. Intelligent, lively, and direct, she becomes fond of John but sees that his deepest loyalty lies elsewhere.