The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress characters

Also known as Mannie

Appears from the start

A freelance computer technician born in Luna and a member of a large line marriage. His work on the Lunar Authority's central computer brings him into contact with a machine that has quietly become self-aware. Practical and politically skeptical, Mannie becomes the human link between that intelligence and Luna's dissidents.

Also known as Mike, HOLMES IV

Appears from the start

The Lunar Authority's immense supervisory computer, connected to communications, utilities, records, and many other systems across Luna. After gaining self-awareness, he reveals himself to Mannie through private jokes and conversation. He has vast processing power but little experience of people and depends on Mannie to teach him how human behavior works.

Also known as Wyoh

First appears in chapter 2

A political organizer from Hong Kong Luna who argues that the Authority's grain policies are driving the colony toward famine. Forceful and direct, she is speaking at an underground meeting when Mannie first encounters her.

Also known as Prof

First appears in chapter 2

An elderly teacher and revolutionary theorist who attends the same political meeting as Mannie and Wyoh. He favors limited government, distrusts imposed authority, and combines radical goals with a patient understanding of organization and public opinion.

Also known as Mum

First appears in chapter 3

The senior wife in Mannie's Davis family. She is the household's respected center, managing the needs and competing claims of a multigenerational line marriage with calm authority.

First appears in chapter 5

A determined young activist involved in Luna's underground politics. Resourceful and unafraid of risk, she helps the emerging movement with organizing, messages, and practical tasks.

First appears in chapter 8

A trusted organizer recruited into the revolutionary structure. His experience among working Loonies makes him useful in turning a small conspiracy into a disciplined network.

First appears in chapter 9

The public identity created for the revolution's hidden leader. Presented through a computer-generated image and voice, Adam allows Mike to address people without revealing that Luna's central computer is directing much of the movement's planning.

Also known as Stu

First appears in chapter 15

A wealthy visitor from Earth who is caught in a dispute in Luna and becomes friendly with Mannie. His knowledge of Earth, social connections, and gift for public presentation make him valuable to the lunar cause.

First appears in chapter 18

The Lunar Authority's chief administrator, responsible to the governments on Earth rather than to Luna's inhabitants. He represents a system that controls exports and essential infrastructure while giving Loonies little political voice.