The narrator and a young novice who accompanies William, offering a perspective of innocence and curiosity as he learns from his mentor.

The abbot of the monastery where much of the story takes place, who is proud of the abbey's riches and asks William to investigate a suspicious death.

The cellarer of the monastery, responsible for its stores of food and drink, with a complex past involving heresy and moral conflicts.

An associate of Remigio and a peculiar monk with a disheveled appearance, known for his unusual speech and questionable activities.

A talented young illuminator whose mysterious death sparks the central investigation.

A Franciscan friar and an exile known for his passionate orations on Christ's poverty, and a friend of William's.

The herbalist of the abbey, responsible for the infirmary and gardens, who assists William in his inquiries with his knowledge of herbs.

The librarian of the abbey, respected and feared, whose role ties deeply into the abbey’s secrets.

An elderly, blind monk known for his extensive knowledge and respected presence in the abbey, integral to the unfolding mystery.

The assistant librarian, known for his knowledge and questionable liaisons with fellow monks, central to the abbey's secrets.

A translator passionate about Aristotle, whose curiosity leads him into the abbey's most dangerous secrets.

A monk studying rhetoric with a keen interest in the abbey’s mysteries and ambitions tied to its intellectual resources.

The master glazier fascinated by new technologies like eyeglasses, who takes on additional responsibilities at the abbey.

A monk in the scriptorium known for his cynical and mocking nature, part of a group resentful of non-Italians holding prestigious positions.

The oldest monk in the abbey, knowledgeable about its history and intricacies, providing key insights into the mystery.

A historical figure, the head of the Franciscan order, skilled in navigating politics and religious obligations.

An opponent of the Pope, joining the Franciscan delegation.

A historical inquisitor whose methods contrast sharply with William's, reflecting themes of justice and morality.

A village resident whose interaction with Adso provides him a glimpse into emotions and desires outside his monastic life.

An illuminator in the scriptorium, part of the group opposed to the foreign hold on the abbey’s library.

A monk working in the scriptorium, disgruntled over the foreign influence within the abbey.

An illuminator within the abbey’s scriptorium.

An illuminator working in the scriptorium.

An illuminator and one of the Italian monks with growing resentment towards foreign librarians.