The Three Musketeers (AmazonClassics Edition) characters

Appears from the start

An ambitious young Gascon who rides toward Paris with little money, a quick temper, and a letter of introduction to the captain of the King's Musketeers. His skill and nerve are matched by a readiness to take offense, and an insult at Meung immediately diverts him from his careful plans.

First appears in chapter 2

The oldest and most reserved of the three musketeers d'Artagnan meets in Paris. He has aristocratic manners, formidable courage, and a private sorrow he does not discuss. Though often melancholy, he is a dependable swordsman and the natural leader of his friends.

First appears in chapter 2

A large, boastful musketeer who cultivates an appearance of wealth and grandeur even when short of cash. He is vain about his clothes and romantic prospects, but his courage in a fight and loyalty to his companions are genuine.

First appears in chapter 2

A graceful, educated musketeer who insists that military life is only temporary and speaks often of entering the Church. His learning and discreet social connections complement his friends' more direct talents.

First appears in chapter 2

Captain of the King's Musketeers and the intended recipient of d'Artagnan's stolen letter of introduction. Proud of his corps and protective of its members, he recognizes courage quickly while demanding discipline and loyalty.

Appears from the start

A scarred gentleman encountered at Meung who mocks d'Artagnan, has him beaten, and takes his letter to Tréville. He appears to be engaged in confidential business connected to the cardinal and becomes the young Gascon's first enemy in France.

Appears from the start

An elegant Englishwoman glimpsed in a carriage at Meung while receiving instructions from d'Artagnan's new enemy. Her beauty, wealth, and involvement in secret political business immediately mark her as someone of consequence.

First appears in chapter 8

A Paris mercer who becomes d'Artagnan's landlord. Anxious and easily influenced, he asks for help after his young wife is abducted because of her service in the queen's household.

Also known as Madame Bonacieux

First appears in chapter 10

The mercer's young wife and a trusted attendant in the queen's household. Resourceful under pressure, she draws d'Artagnan into a dangerous court secret after he helps her escape captivity.

Also known as Anne of Austria

First appears in chapter 8

The queen of France, caught between her marriage to Louis XIII, the cardinal's surveillance, and her own sympathy for Spain and England. Her isolated position at court makes even a private token or meeting politically dangerous.

Also known as The Duke of Buckingham

First appears in chapter 12

The powerful English favorite of King Charles I and a devoted admirer of Queen Anne. He enters Paris in disguise for a secret meeting, risking a diplomatic crisis for the chance to see her.

Also known as Cardinal Richelieu

First appears in chapter 6

France's chief minister and the dominant political force at court. He maintains his own guards and network of agents, rivals the queen's circle, and watches both king and musketeers with strategic patience.

First appears in chapter 6

The king of France, jealous of Buckingham and suspicious of his queen. He values Tréville's musketeers but is readily steered by court rivalries and the cardinal's carefully presented information.

First appears in chapter 21

Milady's English brother-in-law, first met by d'Artagnan during the journey to London. Courteous and courageous, he is grateful when d'Artagnan helps him survive an attack and welcomes him in England.

First appears in chapter 33

Milady's maid, who is more candid and vulnerable than her mistress. She shows an immediate interest in d'Artagnan when he begins visiting the household.

First appears in chapter 51

A Puritan naval officer assigned to guard Milady during her confinement in England. Severe in principle and distrustful of his prisoner, he follows Lord de Winter's precautions closely.