Ambrosio
A celebrated monk whose pride, repression, and appetite develop into escalating violence.
Matilda / Rosario
A demonic tempter who enters the monastery in disguise and guides Ambrosio into sex and sorcery.
Antonia
An innocent young woman targeted by Ambrosio and loved by Lorenzo.
Elvira
Antonia's protective mother, murdered after recognizing the danger Ambrosio poses.
Lorenzo
Agnes's brother and Antonia's suitor, involved in the convent investigation and rescue.
Agnes
A pregnant novice subjected to brutal punishment by the prioress.
Raymond / Marquis de las Cisternas
Agnes's lover, whose long history includes bandits and the Bleeding Nun.
The Prioress
The convent superior whose punishment of Agnes helps provoke a violent public uprising.