Francis Sancher
Although his ancestors are from the Village of Guadeloupe, Sancher is a stranger by the time he arrives. He believes that he is cursed, like all of his male relatives, to die mysteriously by the age of 50. He's come to Guadeloupe in order to face death head on, but while there he quickly settles into a blissful lifestyle. Enjoying the people of the village so much, he becomes content to die after knowing such people. Still, he does not allow any one person to become very close to him emotionally in the hopes of sparing them all the intense grief after his imminent death. In the end he does die, but not before making a profound impact on the lives of everyone in the village and fathering a child with Mira.
Moase
Moase is Sancher's first friend in Guadeloupe. Remembering his own difficult arrival in the village, Moase remains sympathetic to Sancher's transition as the new guy in town. He follows him around so much that they become best friends. The villagers soon spread rumors that the two men are engaged in a homosexual relationship, but they are unfounded suspicions.
Mira
Mira is a young woman of European heritage. She's looking for a savior and a father-figure, having grown up with only her step-mother. Immediately she latches onto the handsome and capable Sancher. Although he's significantly older than her, she considers his affections a privilege and their brief relationship an honor. When she learns after Sancher's death that she's pregnant, she determines to raise his child honorably and in a manner which Sancher himself would have chosen.
Vilma
Vilma is Sancher's other lover. She's a dark-skinned native woman who follows the strict traditions of her parents. Although she's the second woman, she passionately loves Sancher and is honored just to be considered by him. She too becomes pregnant with his child, but she finds out after his death. Distraught over losing her lover, she begs the other villagers to burn her upon his pyre. This is a native Indian tradition which she would be familiar with from her upbringing.
