Esther Brandeau
Esther, the protagonist, is a Jewish girl born in France who disguises herself as a boy to escape to the New World. Officials in the colony of New France discover her disguise and hold her captive in Intendant Hocquart’s home while an investigation into her true identity is conducted. Before a decision is made about her fate, Esther enchants those in Hocquart’s household with stories of love, adventure, and religion. Her eloquent stories attract fame and soon crowds start gathering to hear her tales. Her subject stories appear radical and scandalous but offer adventure, hope, and escape which is what her audience relates to.
Esther from the Bible
In one of Esther’s many stories, she recounts the story of Esther from the Bible whose courage and faith saved her people from imminent death. Esther beseeched her husband, the king, to spare the lives of her people, and instead of persecuting them, the king gave an order for the Jews to kill those who sought to destroy them.
Esther’s parents
Esther’s parents are forced to abandon their religious beliefs by the growing Catholic influence which considers Judaism as an extremist religion. However, Esther’s father still maintains that all girls should be married, hence he organizes for Esther to be sent to her suitor. However, Esther escapes after learning of her father’s plans for an arranged marriage.
Jacques Lafargue
Jacques is a false identity that Esther uses to make her way into New France.
