Gabriel Oak
One of the main characters in the novel, Gabriel is a thoughtful, reliable, and steadfastly loyal man. He holds both himself and others to high moral standards, and he takes his work very seriously. Although Gabriel experiences setbacks and reversals of fortune over the course of the novel, his virtue and patience allow him to ultimately be successful and happy at the end. Gabriel begins his career as a shepherd, but ends up working as a bailiff and farm manager.
Bathsheba Everdene
Bathsheba is a spirited, independent, and charismatic young woman placed in unconventional circumstances after rising to a position of autonomy and power through inheriting her uncle’s farm. She can be reckless and impulsive and part of her growth and development over the course of the novel involves her learning how to make good decisions and rely on the individuals who truly have her best interests at heart.
Mrs. Hurst
Mrs. Hurst is Bathsheba’s aunt, who lives near Gabriel’s farm and just outside of Norcombe. Bathsheba comes to stay with her at the start of the novel, which is what leads to her first encountering Gabriel.
Liddy Smallbury
A young woman who works at the farm of Bathsheba’s uncle, she becomes her personal servant and companion after Bathsheba inherits the property.
Farmer William Boldwood
Farmer William Boldwood is a prosperous middle-aged farmer whose land is located next to the Everdene farm. He has lived a lonely and reserved life, but once he believes that Bathsheba is in love with him, he falls passionately and obsessively in love with her.
Sergeant Frank Troy
Sergeant Frank Troy is a handsome and charismatic man who makes his living as a soldier. He is a womanizer who first seduces Fanny and then abandons her without marrying her. He later marries Bathsheba but proves to be a disappointing husband.
Fanny Robbins
Fanny Robbins is a working-class young woman who initially works at the Everdene farm, before running away to be with Troy. She becomes pregnant out of wedlock and dies giving birth to Troy's illegitimate child.
Joseph Poorgrass
Joseph Poorgrass is one of the employees of the Everdene farm.
Jan Coggan
Jan Coggan is one of the employees of the Everdene farm.
Mark Clark
Mark Clark is one of the employees of the Everdene farm.
Laban Tall
Laban Tall is one of the employees of the Everdene farm.
Cainy Ball
Cainy Ball is one of the employees of the Everdene farm.
