"A perplexed schollar," Amphibius hides from Philoponus at the play's beginning because he is ashamed of his "passions" which (though previously directed towards his scholarly endeavours) are now newly "inthrald" and have caused him to "turn [. . .] souldier." He identifies his crisis in detail for the audience before deciding to flee to "some cave" in the "thickest groves." After receiving "from grave Museus's hand Apollos benediction" Philoponus recalls past discourses with Amphibius and seeks out his friend whom he claims "promised to overtake [him] at this morning's sacrifice." After searching high and low for Amphibius, Philoponus finally finds him. Amphibius informs Philoponus of his changed affections and the two discuss Amphibius's desire to "untwist" himself from his "bond of service to Apollo"–the result of Amphibius's previous encounter with Siren and his receipt of what he sees as a very convincing letter from Queen Hedone encouraging him to give up his scholarly ambitions. Philoponus reads his friend's letter from Siren and Queen Hedone, and the two discuss it and then depart for the "laurell Grove" to get to the bottom of what Philoponus refers to as the "fardell of false wares." Amphibius claims, later in the play, that (while in the laurel grove) Philoponus "dispel'd those mists" which Siren had "cast before" his eyes. When Amphibius expresses his desire for revenge upon Siren, Philoponus advises him "no more to speake with her by word or pen." After Amphibius thanks Philoponus for leading him out of "this Labyrinth," the friends depart for the "Session" at Apollo's Court which "is long since begunne." He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, where he expresses his hatred for Siren and has "one kick more at her" before she is led out after being sentenced by Museus for her mischievousness.
APOLLO
A "ghost character." Apollo is "the Lord and Master of the Muses" who is known and referred to by all other characters. As Prologus points out, "his Throne and Court [. . .] is the shoppe and staple of learning." It is Apollo's school which the scholars attend and Apollo to whom they pay "sacred homage." Lauriger, Drudo, and Preco pronounce the Proclamation of Apollo's "yeerly visitation," and Lauriger later claims that, after he, Preco, and Drudo informed Apollo of their efforts spent in the "publishing of his Mandates," Apollo "charged [them] that this inquiry should be more strickt then heretofore." For this reason, Preco and Drudo are sent to notify those who must appear in the Court at Apollo's command. Siren attempts throughout the play to "subvert [. . .] Apollos subjects" and Ludio asks Lauriger to "intreat" Apollo to play with him. Slugge asks Drudo to play the part of Apollo so that they won't have to complete the trek to Apollo's Court and Drudo refuses, but allows him to "say what [he] canst" since "Apollo sees and heares all things in all places." He presides over the court where disobedient characters are forced to appear and where others are free to express concerns, and his "doom" and mercy are pronounced at the play's end to each character by his "Priest and Judge," Museus. In this way, Apollo "weeds out" his garden so that "each tender plant, and goodly flowre" may be able to "grow up, and thrive, by heavens assisting power."
APPRENTICES
"Ghost characters." Slugge claims that he has "bin entertain'd evermore by some of Apollos prentises. They have kept [him] and fed [him] in their chambers, and hug'd [him] in their bed." The "lazy droane" claims that he "never wanted among them, those that would rather rest with [him] in a cold morning, then dance after the Muses pipe with benum'd hands and chattering teeth."
BROTHER, LALA'S
A "ghost character." Lala passes on her brother's wisdom in the play's Introduction.
BOYS
"Ghost characters." Lauriger describes the way in which "the boyes in the outer-court of Apollos Pallace"–after perceiving that Complement "was like to be banished"–tied "squibs to his skirts; which being fired [. . .] mounted up into the ayre as high as a Larke." As Philoponus states, "One boy said, that this was the Captaines lofty capering tricke."
CAPTAINE COMPLEMENT
"A teacher of gestures and fashions" who is described by Museus as "toying," "apish," and "prating," Complement employs a Page, Jacke Implement, and is John Gingle's Tutor. As his name suggests, he is constantly fishing for compliments (mainly from Implement) and incessantly reinvents the past in order to make himself appear to be more important than he actually is. He claims to have once been an "Ambassadour" to "the great Mogull" from the King of Calecut and, near the play's beginning, he orders Implement to recite the titles which he received from the Mogull and chides his Page for having initially left them out of "the Alphabet of [his] Titles." Novice is impressed by the Captaine and offers Implement various bribes in order to entice the Page to speak on his behalf to "the mighty man." Implement presents Novice's "suit" to Complement - that Novice may "be [his] schollar for an houre in a day"– and, after much ado, Complement agrees "to entertaine" Novice "upon probation." Philoponus has previously informed the Captaine that "Apollo should bee complained unto, and [Complement] accused of robbery, for stealing away his best hopes." However, Complement thanks Implement for bringing "a pretty fat fowle to [their] net" and sets off "to give accesse and interview to Sir Orgolio. John Gringle claims to like Complement better than Museus and his mother, Mistress Indulgence Gingle, compliments the Captaine repeatedly, sends Complement extra money for his "favour," and has instructed her son to "obey him, and follow his instructions." Indulgence is also "suiter to Apollo for him, that he may continue his schoole of fine feats." Complement claims that he has Siren's love, but expresses "griefe & anger" over Sir Orgolio's acceptance of his dinner invitation. He makes much fuss with Implement over this issue, until the Page comes up with some possible solutions to the problem and the matter is forgotten about. Complement sends a "Broker" (presumably Implement) to "proffer" Lauriger with a "pension" if he can "procure a patent from Apollo" that will allow the Captaine to "hold on his apish trade" which Lauriger identifies as a "trap" and refuses. For this reason, Lauriger vows to "accuse them both anon at Apollos Judgement seat." Complement delivers a lengthy lesson to Gingle on what to do if the boy finds "a Lady weeping and mournfull, for that her Monkey is sicke of the mumps," claims that he has written "a large booke of instructions," chides his "disciple" for wearing a knife, and hastens to "muster up" friends and "advocates" to plead his case at Apollo's Court. He delivers a second lesson to Gingle on the art of shrugging, which is borne out of a dispute over money and the number of months in the year, until it is "high time" for him to "appeare" at "the Session" of Apollo. Ludio later informs Thuriger that Indulgence "never ceased crying out to Apollo" in Court on Complement's behalf, and that "Apollo himselfe was faine to command her silence." At the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, Preco calls his name as "Complement, pretended Captaine, alias Captaine Comp. Fasionmonger," and Drudo claims that he has "fled." Museus states that "Apollo had doom'd him to be blowne up with Vulcans bellowes into the middle Region of the ayre." Lauriger then describes the way in which "the boyes in the outer-court of Apollos Pallace"–after perceiving that the Captaine "was like to be banished"–tied "squibs to his skirts; which being fired [. . .] mounted up into the ayre as high as a Larke." The Verger also claims that he is likely on "the Iland of Coxcombria, a place thicke impeopled with such riffe raffe."
CLIO
"A Muse" and one of Museus's assistants, Clio appears only at the play's end. She attends the sentencing of disobedient characters and responds to a comment made by Siren. Museus claims that her help is not needed in the search of Siren's person which is "onely of her upper garment," and Clio closes the play (along with Euterpe) when she states, "It joyes my heart, that we poore Muses, / Now have redresse of our abuses."
COACHMAN
A "ghost character." Indulgence instructs Jugge Rubbish to tell her Coachman to "lay the Coach-bed backward" since they will be climbing uphill to Apollo's Court. Jugge later informs her Mistress that "the Coachman talks like a rogue, and sayes that nothing but a wife will tame him" and Indulgence claims that he is likely "three quarters drunke." At the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, Drudo informs the crowd that Indulgence's coach overturned after she "scowred away in her Coach with her sonne" following her appearance in Apollo's Court.
COUNCELLOR
A "ghost character." Ludio informs Thuriger that, during the gamester's appearance before Apollo, "one of Apollos learned Councell had like to pull'd [him] downe, when he told [him] that it was against law to produce the Judge for a witnesse."
DAUGHTERS
"Ghost characters." Museus claims (at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end) that Apollo sentences Ludio to "play uncessantly" at dice with the "fifty daughters of Dinaus, whose play is still to fetch and fetch water in a sieve" as his eternal playfellows. However, the dice must be put into a "bottomlesse boxe" so that "they fall to the ground" whenever they are thrown, and Ludio must "take them up" each time–repeating this cycle for eternity.
DRUDO
Museus's "Booke-bearer," Drudo assists Lauriger and Preco with the Proclamation of Apollo's "yeerly visitation." He expresses his desire to be "a pretty water Poet" and talks with the others about Apollo's approaching visit. Lauriger orders Drudo to "looke [. . .] betweene the Temple and the hill" for people, and Preco to "looke into the Grove." When no one can be found, Preco climbs a tree to proclaim Apollo's coming, and the three "returne" to Museus to "acquaint" him with what they've done. Lauriger claims later that, after he, Preco, and Drudo informed Apollo of their "publishing of his Mandates," Apollo "charged [them] that this inquiry should be more strickt then heretofore" and, for this reason, Preco and Drudo go about notifying those who must appear in the Court at Apollo's command. After notifying Siren, the "goddesse" tries to tempt them from their work, but Drudo puts a stop to this by charging Preco to take her to Apollo while he goes to "cite Slug." Drudo lectures Slim Slugge on his laziness and discourages him "from hope of admittance." When Slugge asks Drudo to play the part of Apollo so that they won't have to complete the trek to Apollo's Court, Drudo refuses but allows him to "say what [he] canst" since "Apollo sees and heares all things in all places." Thus, Drudo listens to and comments on Slugge's "clayme" until he's had "enough" and forces the "drunken Beare" to move along. He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, where he helps to bring about order, provides information about the overturning of Indulgence's coach, and comments on the action.
EPILOGUE
Listed in the Dramatis Personae as "Epilogue," this character delivers the Epilogue at the play's end.
EUTERPE
"A Muse" and one of Museus's assistants, Euterpe appears only at the play's end. She attends the sentencing of disobedient characters, assists Museus, and responds to a comment made by Siren. Museus claims that her help is not needed in the search of Siren's person which is "onely of her upper garment," and Euterpe closes the play (along with Clio) when she states, "Before alas I mournd and wept: / But now I joy: our schoole is swept."
FATHER, COMPLEMENT'S
A "ghost character." Implement jokes that Complement's father "was a Baker, and therefore [Complement] allowes an odde cast of courtesie, neatly chipt" to the number of months in the year.
FATHER, GRINGLE'S
A "ghost character." Indulgence asserts that Gringle is his "fathers picture" and claims that her son will have his father's "long guilt Rapier." Gringle claims that his father is "a man of great worth, and lands" and that he is his father's "heire apparant."
FATHER, NOVICE'S
A "ghost character." Novice offers Implement various bribes in order to entice the Page to speak on his behalf to Complement and the greedy Implement asks Novice to steal his father's "dagger with the silver haft" for him in return. When Complement asks Implement if Novice's parents are rich, Implement claims that Novice's "father's but a plaine Farmer; but hee's call'd the rich Chuffe. Hee keeps three ploughes, and fourteene yoake of Oxen."
FATHER, PHILOPONUS'S
Philoponus claims that his father has no land to leave him, but that "his meane estate is the better meanes of [Philoponus's] happiness." He also states that the education which his father "affoords" him is "a more goodly and durable inheritance" than "thousands of flockes and acres."
FATHER, SLUGGE'S
A "ghost character." Slugge informs Drudo that he has "the gout [. . .] in foot, and hand too." He also claims that his "father and grandsire had so."
FRIEND
A "ghost character." Ludio recites to the Sexton a small part of his "Apology" which he had "a friend in a corner" draw up for him "in forme of Law, according to the stile of Apollos Court" (in return for lessons in gaming).
GAMESTER, FIRST and SECOND
Non-speaking characters. Ludio "plaies two gamesters, and wrangles" during his first appearance in the play.
GANEO
A "ghost character." Ludio speaks of "young Oleo" who "got of Ganeo the Elder, all his points, hatband, garters, and a gold ring, and five crownes in money; and yet in two houres to see to, see how fortune came with a windlace about againe." He delivers this story in order to prove to Lauriger that "hee that loseth at one time may winne at another."
GENTLEMAN
A fictional character within the play, Complement invents a "busie curious Gentleman" in providing Gringle with an example of a situation in which he should make use of the "Italian Shrugge." In this example, the Gentleman "should aske you whether there past no tearmes of love betweene you and" a certain "faire and honourable Lady," and the shrug is the perfect way to escape the situation with grace.
GERON
"An old man" and Rowland Retro's "mournfull father," Geron enters the play late and claims to "have bin mending [his] hedges, which the scurvy boy Ludio broake downe." He expresses his desire to nap, but states that he must, instead, be "vexed with" his son whom he has been "tending" for the past two years. He takes Retro to Apollo's court to (hopefully) gain Apollo's favour. He blames Retro's mother for encouraging their son in his scholarly hastiness, for which Retro was previously punished with a distorted tongue and limbs. Since only two years (of the three year sentence) have passed thus far, the old man is beginning to lose hope of living until the full restoration of Retro's faculties. Retro implies that he wants Geron to "speake to Museus" about interceding in Apollo's Court on his behalf but Geron, afraid to approach the Priest, retires to rest and "recollect [his] spirits" while Museus and Philoponus converse. Geron later reveals himself and begs Philoponus to "intreat Museus for [his] childe." Philoponus does so, and Museus provides Geron with some hope that Apollo will "remit the remaining yeer" of Retro's punishment. He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, and asks Museus to have mercy on his son. When Museus claims that Apollo has "accepted [Retro's] submission, and cuts off the third yeere of [his] punishment," Geron thanks the "sacred Priest" and claims that he will bring his wife the "joyfull newes."
GRANDSIRE, SLUGGE'S
A "ghost character." Slugge informs Drudo that he has "the gout [. . .] in foot, and hand too." He also claims that his "father and grandsire had so."
GROBIANO
A "ghost character" and "the Captaine of [Complement's] Complementall Schoole," Implement includes Grobiano in a plan which he presents to Complement in order to cure the Captaine's "griefe & anger" over Sir Orgolio's acceptance of his dinner invitation. Implement advises Complement to tell Orgolio "that this day upon Apollos call, the whole Academy of vertuous students arriving here, Count [. . .] Grobiano, takes up the chiefe Inne in Parnassus [. . .] and there makes his probation feast with a Maske, that must last till midnight." Furthermore, Implement advises Complement to tell Orgolio that the "Don hath overintreated" Complement "to be the Herald and Earle Marshall to set every guest in's place, and every dish in's ranke." Thus, Implement concludes, Orgolio will not be able to come for dinner. Furthermore, Siren later encourages Ludio to seek out Grobiano to play with him, but Ludio explains that he must study "an oration" if he hopes "to save [his] head from a blow, which Apollos visitation may now bring upon [him]."
INDULGENCE GINGLE
John Gingle's mother, Indulgence insults and orders her "maid-servant" (Jugge Rubbish) about. She helps ready her son for a lesson with Complement and expresses her love for her son, her admiration of the Captaine, and her hatred for scholars. Mistress Indulgence Gingle compliments the Captaine repeatedly, sends him extra money for his "favour," and has instructed her son to "obey him, and follow his instructions." She is Complement's "suiter to Apollo [. . .] that he may continue his schoole of fine feats," and readies herself for her appearance in the Court. Indulgence and her son ride in their Coach to "the Session" while Complement and Implement "march up the hill on foot." Thuriger asks Ludio about how Indulgence "behave[d] herself" in the Court, and Ludio informs him that "she never ceased crying out to Apollo" on Complement's behalf and that "Apollo himself was faine to command her silence." At the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end Preco calls her, first, by the name "Mistresse Indigence Gingle" before being corrected by Philoponus. He then names her as "Mistress Indulgence Gingle. Spinster." Drudo informs the crowd that, after her appearance before Apollo, Indulgence "scowred away in her Coach with her sonne, and said she would dwell no longer in Thessaly, if her sones best instructor be not suffered here." However, "as she fled, her Coach overturned." At this information Museus proclaims,"Let her foure wheeles carry Apollos curse with her, that none of her kindred shall ever get above the petty forme of Apollos schoole," and instructs Preco to "passe on."
JACKE IMPLEMENT
Captaine Complement's Page and "Count Booke" keeper, Implement is Complement's constant sidekick and partner in crime who feeds his Master's hunger for compliments. Near the play's beginning, Complement orders Implement to recite the titles which he received from "the great Mogull" and chides his Page for having initially left them out of "the Alphabet of [his] Titles." Novice is impressed by the Captaine and offers Implement various bribes in order to entice the Page to speak on his behalf to "the mighty man." Implement presents Novice's "suit" to Complement - that Novice may "be [his] schollar for an houre in a day"– and, after much ado, Complement agrees "to entertaine" Novice "upon probation." For bringing "a pretty fat fowle to [their] net," Complement thanks Implement. When Complement expresses "griefe & anger" over Sir Orgolio's acceptance of his dinner invitation and proceeds to make much fuss with Implement over the issue, the Page comes up with some possible solutions to the problem and the matter is forgotten about. Complement sends a "Broker" (presumably Implement) to "proffer" Lauriger with a "pension" if he can "procure a patent from Apollo" that will allow the Captaine to "hold on his apish trade" which Lauriger identifies as a "trap" and refuses. For this reason, Lauriger vows to "accuse them both anon at Apollos Judgement seat." He comments on Complement's lengthy lesson to Gingle on what to do if the boy finds "a Lady weeping and mournfull, for that her Monkey is sicke of the mumps," and makes various remarks under his breath concerning Complement's exaggerations of the truth, his own hunger, and their poverty. During this lesson he "rides upon Gingles backe" as they imitate Apes. When the Captain chides Gingle for carrying a knife Implement claims that he'll take it. He is also present during Complement's second lesson to Gingle on the art of shrugging, which is borne out of a dispute over money and the number of months in the year. When it is "high time" for Complement to "appeare" before "the Session" of Apollo, Implement accompanies him "up the hill on foot." He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, and when his name is called by Preco he begs Museus to "be good to a poore Page" since he "had but a hard service under [Complement]" and "would faine goe to schoole againe." Museus gives him "Apollos doome" when he states that his "lot is for the schoole again: but there for one whole yeere [he] must smooth out the dogs eares of all [his] fellowes bookes." He also must "vow to ply [his] booke as nimbly as ever [he] didst [his] Masters Apery," which he agrees to readily.
JOBBART
A "ghost character." Novice names Jobbart in a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him, and Implement claims that each boy in this list has "profited very well" under Captaine Complement and himself.
JOHN GINGLE
Mistresse Indulgence Gingle's son and "a disciple of Captaine Complements," Philoponus claims near the play's beginning that he does not envy the "spruce gallant Gingle, that now forsooth scornes to be our schoole-fellow any longer." Novice claims that "master Gingle" is his "forme-fellow" and Ludio mourns the loss of a playfellow in Gingle since "hee's growne so proud" and tells the gamester that "hee's not for boyes play now." His mother helps to ready him for his lesson with Complement and expresses her love for her son, sends the Captaine extra money for his "favour" by Gingle, and has instructed her son to "obey him, and follow his instructions." He praises his mother and implores her to refer to him as "Master John, or Master Gingle my sonne" so that "Others will do [him] the more honour." He claims to like the Captaine better than Museus and reminds his mother that he is the "heire apparent" to "a man of great worth, and lands." Gingle also reminds his mother that she is Complement's "suiter to Apollo [. . .] that he may continue his schoole of fine feats." He receives a lengthy lesson from Complement on what to do if he finds "a Lady weeping and mournfull, for that her Monkey is sicke of the mumps" during which time Implement "rides upon Gingles backe" as they imitate Apes, and he is chided by his Tutor for wearing a knife. Gingle is sent as the "Remembrancer" to his mother, and claims that if she does not "protect" the Captain then "she is no mother for [him]." He later receives a lesson on the art of shrugging from the Captaine, which is borne out of a dispute over money and the number of months in the year, until it is "high time" for them to "appeare" before "the Session" of Apollo. Indulgence and her son ride in their Coach to "the Session" while Complement and Implement "march up the hill on foot." Although Indulgence's suit on Complement's behalf fails, Ludio informs Thuriger that "Yong Gingle in his triall stood much upon his gentry, and carried himselfe like a fine dancing Courtier." Gingle is not present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end and Drudo informs the crowd that, after her appearance in Court, Indulgence "scowred away in her Coach with her sonne, and said she would dwell no longer in Thessaly, if her sones best instructor be not suffered here." However, "as she fled, her Coach overturned." After Preco calls the boy's name as "John Gingle, Gentleman Woo'd-be," Museus pronounces his sentence from Apollo - "Apollo pronounceth that his lot must be, before he be forty yeeres old, to spend all his five Mannors upon the five Sences: Except the Mansion house of Foolingham, which is intailed to the heires of his body woefully begotten."
JUGGE RUBBISH
The "maid-servant to Mistress Gingle," Jugge Rubbish is ordered about and insulted by Indulgence. She helps her Mistress to prepare for her appearance in Apollo's Court on Captaine Complement's behalf and, after Indulgence expresses her hate for scholars, Jugge claims that she does not feel the same and "could fine in [her] heart to marry Philoponus at a venture."
KING of CALECUT
A "ghost character." Captaine Complement claims to have received a variety of titles from "the great Mogull" when he "went Ambassadour to him from the King of Calecut."
KITCHEN WENCH
A "ghost character." Implement reminds Captaine Complement that he "once courted a sousing Dame, (a fulsome Kitchinwench)."
KNIGHT
A fictional character within the play, Complement invents a "husband who was dubbed Knight with an unbloody sword" for his Lady "weeping and mournfull, for that her Monkey is sicke of the mumps" during his first lesson to Gringle in the play.
LADY, FIRST and SECOND
Fictional characters within the play. Complement invents a First Lady "weeping and mournfull, for that her Monkey is sicke of the mumps" in order to teach his disciple Gringle the proper thing to say to her. She is described as "richer in clothes then in joynter" and is married to one "who was dubbed Knight with an unbloody sword." This is the basis of Complement's first lesson to Gringle in the play. Next, Complement invents "some faire and honourable Lady [. . .] mentioned at the Table" in providing Gringle with an example of a situation in which he should make use of the "Italian Shrugge." In this example, a fictional Gentleman "should aske you whether there past no tearmes of love betweene you and her" and the shrug is the perfect way to escape the situation with grace.
LALA
"A woman Spectator," Lala is a part of the play's Introduction. She is a "Spinster" and a "true housewife" who is described by Prologus as a "chattering Mappy." She chides Prologus for delivering the play's Prologue in Latin and, at her insistence, he agrees to translate his message into English. She tears the paper from which Prologus reads and repeatedly misconstrues his words and meanings, and injects her own comments and questions into his "part." His pleadings with her to keep quiet prove useless, and he exits to hang a "banner at Apollos gate." Lala expresses her mistrust of scholars and remains for the play's first scene, in which she "intrude[s]" on Philoponus and behaves in the same manner towards him as she has behaved towards Prologus. Once she is assured that the play will be presented in English, she goes "into the tyreing house" to "scamble and rangle for a mans part" since, as she protests, women should be able to "act men, as well as boyes act women."
LAURIGER
Museus's "Verger," Lauriger assists Drudo and Preco with the Proclamation of Apollo's "yeerly visitation." He talks with the others about Apollo's approaching visit and orders Drudo to "looke [. . .] betweene the Temple and the hill" for people, and Preco to "looke into the Grove." When no one can be found, Preco climbs a tree to proclaim Apollo's coming, and the three "returne" to Museus to "acquaint" him with what they've done. Lauriger later claims that, after he, Preco, and Drudo informed Apollo of their "publishing of his Mandates," Apollo "charged [them] that this inquiry should be more strickt then heretofore." For this reason, Preco and Drudo are sent to notify those who must appear in the Court at Apollo's command. Siren attempts to convince Lauriger to leave Apollo's service and follow Queen Hedone, "the Goddesse of delight and pleasure," instead. Lauriger will not be tempted and flies from her, but Siren follows him. She attempts to lure him with a letter which he refuses to open, and then vows to have revenge on him. Complement sends his "Broker" (presumably Implement) to "proffer" Lauriger with a "pension" if he is able to "procure a patent from Apollo" that will allow the Captaine to "hold on his apish trade," which Lauriger identifies as a "trap" and refuses. For this reason, Lauriger vows to "accuse them both anon at Apollos Judgement seat." He is approached by Ludio and, after a long discussion with the gamester on school, work, and play, Lauriger agrees to play a game of blind man's bluff with him. However, Lauriger tricks Ludio by exiting after having blindfolded and turned him. He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, where he helps to bring about order, informs Euterpe that Museus requires her assistance, and searches the "upper garment" of Siren by lifting up her veil, pulling off her wig and, thus, revealing her true identity as "an ugly Sea-Monster." He injects various comments into the action, orders Siren to be taken away, and informs everyone of Captaine Complement's fate.
LUDIO
"A truantly schooleboy" and a gamester, Ludio "plaies two gamesters, and wrangles" during his first appearance in the play. He desires "some good playfellowes" and, since he claims that Gingle is "growne so proud" and Slug would not get out of bed, he searches for Novice. However, since Novice is "so taken up with the Captaine" that he cannot play with Ludio, the schoolboy approaches Lauriger. Ludio asks Lauriger to "intreat" Apollo to play with him and also alludes to previous punishment that he's received for foregoing his studies. After a lengthy discussion on school, work, and play, Lauriger agrees to play a game of blind man's bluff with the gamester. Lauriger then proceeds to trick Ludio by leaving the boy after having blindfolded and turned him. Siren approaches Ludio at this time in the hopes of tempting another scholar with her mischievousness and, after Ludio's confusion is dispelled, Siren realizes that the boy is already more concerned with pleasure than with Apollo's service and that her efforts would be wasted on him. She encourages him to seek out Grobiano to play, but Ludio explains that he must study "an oration" if he hopes "to save [his] head from a blow, which Apollos visitation may now bring upon [him]." Geron enters the play late and claims to "have bin mending [his] hedges, which the scurvy boy Ludio broake downe." Ludio is sent, after his appearance before Apollo, to inform Thuriger that everyone wishes to "come down hither" and, thus, for Thuriger to prepare the place for "Apollo and his Actors." Ludio imparts information to Thuriger about the trials presented before Apollo's Court, and recites to the Sexton a small part of his own "Apology" which he had a friend draw up for him (in return for lessons in gaming). He informs Thuriger that his "sachell" was stolen by a Villain while he was presenting his argument, wherein lay all of his "best houshold-stuffe and tooles of [his] trade." He is named as "Ludio Gamester" by Preco at the sentencing of all disobedient characters at the play's end. Museus claims that Apollo sentences him to "play uncessantly." The "fifty daughters of Dinaus" will be his eternal playfellows at dice, but the dice must be put into a "bottomlesse boxe" so that "they fall to the ground" whenever they are thrown, and Ludio must "take them up" each time. He must repeat this cycle for eternity, and at this sentence Ludio's pleasure in "a perpetuall play-day" fades into intense regret that he had spent his time playing rather than studying. Thus, he exits the play.
LUPE
A "ghost character." Museus instructs Siren (at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end) to inform Queen Hedone that she "shall ever unseparably bee manacled to Lupe" for meddling in the affairs of Apollo's school.
MOGULL
A "ghost character." Captaine Complement claims to have received a variety of titles from "the great Mogull" when he "went Ambassadour to him from the King of Calecut." Near the play's beginning, Complement orders Implement to recite these titles for him, and chides him for having initially forgotten them.
MOTHER, NOVICE'S
A "ghost character." Novice refers to his mother throughout the play. Novice is impressed by Captaine Complement and offers to steal various things from his mother–a "Peacocke" (an offer which he later rescinds) and a "silver bodkin–in order to entice the Page to speak on his behalf to "the mighty man." When Complement asks Implement if Novice's parents are rich, Implement claims that Novice's mother "would like her sonne better in a scarfe and ruffled bootes, then in a gowne with a fardell of bookes." After Complement agrees "to entertaine" Novice "upon probation," the boy runs to his mother "for some cash for [his] entrance" and the Captaine thanks Implement for bringing "a pretty fat fowle to [their] net." Furthermore, at his sentencing at the play's end, Novice tries to bribe Museus by promising to get his mother to send him "a couple of Capons."
MOTHER, RETRO'S
A "ghost character." Geron blames his son's scholarly hastiness and, thus, non-proficiency on Retro's mother. Geron also informs Museus that Retro's "Mother will runne madde for griefe" if her son is not treated by Apollo and Museus mercifully, and claims that he "shall bring [his] wife joyfull newes" when Museus claims that Apollo "cuts off the third yeere of [Retro's] punishment."
MOTHER, SLUGGE'S
A "ghost character." Drudo asserts that Slugge's mother "was asleepe when [Slugge] wast begotten."
MUMBLE
A "ghost character." Novice names Mumble in a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him, and Implement claims that each boy in this list has "profited very well" under Captaine Complement and himself.
MUSES
"Ghost characters." Apollo is "the Lord and Master of the Muses." Throughout the play, various characters mention the Muses and make pleas to them for help.
MUSEUS
"Apollos Priest & Judge," Museus appears late in the play although he is mentioned throughout by various characters. Clio and Euterpe are Muses and his assistants, Lauriger is his Verger, and Drudo his Booke-bearer. After Lauriger, Drudo, and Preco finish their Proclamation of Apollo's visitation they "returne [. . .] up the Mount" in order to "acquaint Museus what [they] have done." Gingle claims that he likes Captaine Complement better than Museus and Lauriger warns the gamester Ludio that "if Museus heare" that only "play" is "savory" to him then "Apollos curse will light upon" him. Retro implies that he wants Geron to entreat Museus to intercede on his behalf in Apollo's Court but Geron, afraid to approach the Priest, retires to rest and "recollect [his] spirits" while Museus and Philoponus converse about the corruption of Apollo's "tender plants" and the upcoming Court Session. Museus is described by Philoponus as the "grave guide of tender youth, Interpreter / Of great Apollos lawes chiefe secretary / Unto the learned Muses," and the Priest assures Philoponus that he has recommended the scholar "unto Apollos selfe." Geron later reveals himself to Museus and the diligent scholar. and begs Philoponus to "intreat Museus for [his] childe." Philoponus does so, and Museus provides Geron with some hope that Apollo will "remit the remaining yeer" of Retro's punishment. Drudo claims that "for these seven yeeres, every visitation day" Slugge has been "shut out of doores by Museus." The Priest presides over the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end and Lauriger informs Euterpe that Museus "craves" her assistance. Museus instructs Preco to do his "office" and, as the Cryer "read[s] the Record, and cite[s] the names," Museus doles out Apollo's doom to the "weeds" in Apollo's garden and grants Retro Apollo's mercy. At the play's end Museus claims that "Apollos garden" has been "weeded quite," and instructs Preco to "dissolve the Session."
NICHOL
A "ghost character." Novice names "nimble Nichol" in a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him, and Implement claims that each boy in this list has "profited very well" under Captaine Complement and himself. This character is, presumably, the same character whom Implement is referring to when he describes the accomplishments of a "Mister Nimble."
NIMBLE
A "ghost character." Implement describes the accomplishments of a "Mister Nimble" who has "profited very well" under the tutorage of Captaine Complement and himself. This is, presumably, the same character whom Novice refers to as "nimble Nichol" when reciting a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him.
NOVICE
"A young fresh schollar," Novice is impressed by Captaine Complement and offers Implement various bribes in order to entice the Page to speak on his behalf to "the mighty man." Implement presents Novice's "suit" to Complement - that Novice may "be [his] schollar for an houre in a day"– and, after much ado, Complement agrees "to entertaine" Novice "upon probation." Novice then runs to his mother "for some cash for [his] entrance" and expresses his immense delight at being "in the way of preferment and gallantry." For bringing "a pretty fat fowle to [their] net," Complement thanks Implement. Ludio desires "some good playfellowes" and, since he claims that Gingle is "growne so proud" and Slug would not get out of bed, he searches for Novice. However, Novice is "so taken up with the Captaine" that he cannot play with Ludio. Novice is "cited" by Preco and Drudo who inform him that he must appear before Apollo's Court due to "an accusation against [him] for misspending [his] time with Captaine Complement." At this, Novice claims that he does "but as others doe" and is "not alone." At Siren's attempt to lure Drudo and Preco from their work, Novice claims that he "will have more acquaintance with her" if Apollo allows it. He also claims that "this Siren would make a good wife for [his] Master, Captaine Complement" and, thus, claims that Siren will be his "Mistresse." He is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, and is called by Preco as "Yong Novice, Apprentice." He proceeds to beg for mercy and attempts to bribe Museus. He is sentenced to three years of playing for only one hour of the week and is instructed that he must "never depart from the presence and guidance of Philoponus" during his "schoole time." He is to "observe and imitate [Philoponus's] painful diligence" in order that he may "get the Muses love, and Lord Apollos favour." At this pronouncement, Novice expresses his thanks to Museus.
OLEO
A "ghost character." Ludio speaks of "young Oleo" who "got of Ganeo the Elder, all his points, hatband, garters, and a gold ring, and five crownes in money; and yet in two houres to see to, see how fortune came with a windlace about againe." He delivers this story in order to prove to Lauriger that "hee that loseth at one time may winne at another."
PHILOPONUS
"A diligent student," Lala "intrude[s]" on Philoponus in the play's first scene and proceeds to annoy him by misconstruing his words and meanings, and injecting comments and questions into his discourse. Once she is assured that the play will be presented in English Lala goes "into the tyreing house" to "scamble and rangle for a mans part," leaving the student alone to describe the pleasure which his "devotion" to Apollo's school brings him. Amphibius hides from Philoponus, ashamed of his own "passions" which (though previously directed towards his scholarly endeavours) are newly "inthrald another way." After receiving "from grave Museus's hand Apollos benediction" Philoponus seeks out Amphibius who "promised to overtake [him] at this morning's sacrifice." He expresses his passion for school, recalls past discourses with Amphibius, and claims that he does not envy the "spruce gallant Gingle." He is described by Captain Complement as "a sowre stoicall schollar" who has previously informed Complement that "Apollo should bee complained unto, and [Complement] accused of robbery, for stealing away his best hopes." Novice claims that Philoponus "is the best schollar among us, but he is but a tell-tale" for tattling to Museus on the other students. After searching high and low for Amphibius, Philoponus finally finds him. Philoponus is informed of Amphibius's changing affections, the two discuss Amphibius's desire to "untwist" himself from his "bond of service to Apollo," and Philoponus reads his friend's letter from Siren and Queen Hedone. He discusses the letter with Amphibius and the two depart for the "laurell Grove" to get to the bottom of what he refers to as the "fardell of false wares." Jugge Rubbish and Indulgence discuss Philoponus and scholars in general, and the maid-servant claims that she would "marry Philoponus at a venture." Amphibius claims, later in the play, that (while in the laurel grove) Philoponus "dispel'd those mists" which Siren had "cast before" his eyes. When Amphibius expresses his desire for revenge upon Siren, Philoponus advises him "no more to speake with her by word or pen." After accepting Amphibius's effusive thanks, the two depart for the "Session" at Apollo's Court which "is long since begunne." Philoponus is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, where he comments on the proceedings and voices his opinions. Museus sentences Novice to three years of only one hour per week of play, and orders that he must "never depart from the presence and guidance of Philoponus" during all of his "schoole time." Furthermore, Novice must "observe and imitate his [Philoponus's] painfull diligence."
PRECO
"The Cryer," Preco (along with the help of Lauriger and Drudo) accomplishes the Proclamation of Apollo's "yeerly visitation." He talks with the others about Apollo's approaching visit and is told by Lauriger to "looke into the Grove" for people. When no one can be found, Preco climbs a tree to proclaim Apollo's coming, and the three "returne" to Museus to "acquaint" the Priest with what they've done. Lauriger later claims that, after he, Preco, and Drudo informed Apollo of their "publishing of his Mandates," Apollo "charged [them] that this inquiry should be more strickt then heretofore." For this reason, Preco and Drudo are sent to notify those who must appear before the Court at Apollo's command. Preco "cite[s]" and "indict[s]" Novice and Siren to appear in Court and, after notifying Siren, the "goddesse" tries to tempt them from their work. Drudo puts a stop to this by charging Preco to take her to Apollo while he goes to "cite Slug." Preco sends Ludio to inform Thuriger to prepare the Temple for "Apollo and his Actors." He helps to bring about order at the sentencing, introduces Museus, and proceeds to "read the Record and cite the names" of all disobedient character who are, then, sentenced by Museus at Apollo's command. At the play's end Museus claims that "Apollos garden" has been "weeded quite," and instructs Preco to "dissolve the Session." At this, Preco "dischargeth all suiters, parties, and homagers from their attendance in this place; and licenseth all his subjects and servants, to depart to their severall habitations."
PROLOGUS
"A yong Schollar," Prologus is a part of the play's Introduction. He is described by Lala as a "jabbering al-blacke Jackdaw, with a greene coxcombe" and is chided by her for delivering the play's Prologue in Latin. He agrees to translate his message into English at her insistence. The paper from which he reads is torn by Lala, who misconstrues his words and meanings and injects her own comments and questions into his "part." His pleadings with her to keep quiet prove useless, and he exits to hang a "banner at Apollos gate."
QUEENE HEDONE
A "ghost character" who is apparently "neere allyed to Manto, Cassandra, Aspasia, and the ancient Roman Tanaquil" and "might pretend to be the tenth Muse," Queen Hedone is "the Goddesse of delight and pleasure." Siren claims to be Queen Hedone's messenger throughout the play, and informs Amphibius that Hedone would have attended Apollo's Court "but that she knew not the set day, and now resideth in one of the fortunate Ilands in the Atlantique sea farre oft from Thessaly. And besides all this, she is invited to a feast of foure or five gods by Mercury into Ethiopia." Amphibius claims that he "cannot divorce" himself from her at the play's beginning, and describes her to Philoponus as "all-conquering" and "that high and mighty soveraigne of delights." The two scholars discuss Amphibius's desire to "untwist" himself from his "bond of service to Apollo"–the result of Amphibius's encounter with Siren and his receipt of what he sees as a very convincing letter from Queen Hedone encouraging him to give up his scholarly goals. Siren advertises the Queen's virtues and, in Hedone's name, tries to tempt various characters from their work. For Hedon'es mischief and interference in the affairs of Apollo's school, Museus gives the banished Siren a message "to carry to Dame Hedone, if ere they meete againe" - "that Hedone shall ever unseparably bee manacled to Lupe."
ROWLAND RETRO
"An hasty non-proficient," Retro is the son of Geron. For his scholarly hastiness, he has previously been punished by Apollo with a distorted tongue and limbs and, for the past two years, he has been tended to by his father. Geron begins to conduct Retro to Apollo's court to (hopefully) gain Apollo's favour. Since only two years (of his three year sentence) have passed thus far, the old man is beginning to lose hope that he will live until the full restoration of Retro's faculties. Retro implies that he wants Geron to entreat Museus to intercede on his behalf in Apollo's Court but Geron, afraid to approach the Priest, retires to rest and "recollect [his] spirits" while Museus and Philoponus converse. Geron later reveals himself and begs Philoponus to "intreat Museus for [his] childe." Philoponus does so, and Museus provides Geron with some hope that Apollo will "remit the remaining yeer" of Retro's punishment. Retro is present at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end and, after his father asks Museus to have mercy on him, Museus claims that Apollo has "accepted [Retro's] submission, and cuts off the third yeere of [his] punishment." Museus pronounces that Retro's "tongue may now runne right," the scholar thanks him, and Museus warns him to "holdst the schollars even path" in the future.
SCHOLAR
A "ghost character." Slug claims that he once gave "learn'd counsaile" to a "young schollar" who "told [Slugge] that his Master chid him for keeping his bed." Slugge supplied the boy with a saucy answer.
SCOPAS
"The Sexton's boy," Scopas appears late in the play. He and Thuriger ready Apollo's "Judgement Seate" for the sentencing of all disobedient characters at the play's end. He is sent by the Sexton to "see how forward" the crowd is and to "bring away the Frankinsence." After Scopas returns with frankincense and informs Thuriger that "they are comming hard by," the Sexton finishes his tasks and the two stay to hear Museus pronounce Apollo's judgements.
SCYLLA
A "ghost character." Museus punishes Siren (at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end) by stating that she shall be "tossed, and doussed, together with Scylla, that monstrous shame of nature" in the sea.
SIGNIOR GOFFO
A "ghost character." Implement claims that he "was by" when Gingle shrugged and "Signior Goffo in that action smiled, and asked if [Gringle] were not lowsie."
SIR HARRY TOTTLE
A "ghost character." Complement quotes his "fellow Knight and Philosopher" Sir Harry Tottle when he states that "anger is the whetstone of fortitude."
SIR ORGOLIO
A "ghost character." Complement claims that he must "give accesse and interview to Sir Orgolio" near the play's beginning. Later, Complement claims that the "Knight errant" "came to [him] desirous to be inroll'd [his] schollar," and the Captaine expresses "griefe & anger" over Orgolio's acceptance of his dinner invitation. Complement makes much fuss with Implement over this issue, until the Page comes up with some possible solutions to the problem and the matter is forgotten about.
SIREN
"A Sea nimph" and a "messenger from Queene Hedone," Siren works throughout the play to entice characters from their work and encourage them to enjoy themselves at Queen Hedone's request. Complement claims that he "ha[s] her love and shall." She almost succeeds in the case of Amphibius, who informs Philoponus that his "passions" which (though previously directed towards his scholarly endeavours) are now newly "inthrald," and the two discuss Amphibius's desire to "untwist" himself from his "bond of service to Apollo"–the result of Amphibius's encounter with Siren and his receipt of what he sees as a very convincing letter from Queen Hedone encouraging him to give up his scholarly goals. Philoponus reads his friend's letter from Siren and Queen Hedone, and the two discuss it and then depart for the "laurell Grove" to get to the bottom of what Philoponus refers to as the "fardell of false wares." Amphibius claims, later in the play, that (while in the laurel grove) Philoponus "dispel'd those mists" which Siren had "cast before" his eyes. When Amphibius expresses his desire for revenge upon Siren, Philoponus advises him "no more to speake with her by word or pen." Siren attempts to convince Lauriger to leave Apollo's service and follow Queen Hedone, "the Goddesse of delight and pleasure," instead. Lauriger will not be tempted and flies from her, but Siren follows him. She attempts to lure him with a letter which he refuses to open, and then vows to have revenge on him. She approaches the blindfolded Ludio in the hopes of tempting another scholar with her mischievousness and, after Ludio's confusion due to Lauriger's trick upon him is dispelled, Siren realizes that the boy is already more concerned with pleasure than with Apollo's service and that her efforts would be wasted on him. She encourages him to seek out Grobiano to play, but Ludio explains that he must study "an oration" if he hopes "to save [his] head from a blow, which Apollos visitation may now bring upon [him]." Preco "cite[s]" and "indict[s]" Novice and Siren to appear in Court for "subverting Apollos subjects." and the "goddesse" immediately tries to tempt them from their work. Novice claims that he "will have more acquaintance with her" if Apollo allows it. He also claims that "this Siren would make a good wife for [his] Master, Captaine Complement" and, thus, claims that Siren will be his "Mistresse." Drudo puts a stop to this by charging Preco to take Siren to Apollo while he goes to "cite Slug." She expresses no concern over having to appear before Apollo, since she claims that she has "good friends" in the Court. Ludio informs Thuriger that "Siren slid on smoothly" during her appearance before Apollo's Court, and has possibly "unbent Apollos bow." She is called forward by Preco at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end, and is referred to as "Siren Spinster." She expresses her desire to say more in her defense, which request Lauriger and Preco squash as the latter informs her that she "must heare the Judge, or else bee prest to death presently." Museus claims that Siren "must first be searcht" and, despite her protestations, Lauriger "lift[s] up her vaile," "pull[s] off her head of yallow lockes" and, thus, exposes the "seeming glosing Nimph" as "nothing else, but an ugly Sea-Monster." Museus pronounces her punishment - "to returne to the sea, and there to be tossed, and doussed, together with Scylla" - and gives her a message "to carry to Dame Hedone, if ere they meete againe": "that Hedone shall ever unseparably bee manacled to Lupe." Amphibius expresses his hatred for Siren and has "one kick more at her" before she is brought out.
SISTER, LUDIO'S
A "ghost character." Ludio informs Thuriger that his sister "had sprinckled" the "combe of [his] fingers" and his lips "with rose water [. . .] to make [his] Rhetoricke the sweeter" for his appearance before Apollo's Court.
SLIM SLUGGE
"A lazy droane," Ludio claims that he could not get Slug out of bed to game with him. Drudo instructs Preco to deliver Siren to Apollo while he goes to "cite Slug" to appear before Apollo's Court. Drudo then lectures Slim Slugge on his laziness and discourages him "from hope of admittance" since on "every visitation day" for the past seven years Slugge has been "shut out of doores by Museus." He refers to himself as "Slim Slugge, Sluggy Sluggorum." When Slugge asks Drudo to play the part of Apollo so that they won't have to complete the trek to Apollo's Court, Drudo refuses but allows him to "say what [he] canst" since "Apollo sees and heares all things in all places." Thus, Drudo listens to and comments on Slugge's "clayme" until he's had "enough" and forces the "drunken Beare" to move along to the Court. Ludio informs Thuriger that, when he heard Slugge "call'd" to Apollo, he left the Court assuming that the droane would make them "tarry long." He enters the sentencing of disobedient characters much later than the others and, for this, is chided by Drudo. Preco calls him by a number of titles, and Museus proclaims that "Apollo doth banish [him] into Lubberland." At this, Slugge attempts unsuccessfully to entice someone to accompany him there.
THURIGER
"The Sexton of Apolloes Temple," Thuriger appears late in the play. He and Scopas ready Apollo's "Judgement Seate" for the sentencing of all disobedient characters at the play's end. He sends Scopas to "see how forward" the crowd is and to "bring away the Frankinsence." Ludio is sent by Preco, after his own appearance in Apollo's Court, to tell Thuriger to prepare the Temple for "Apollo and his Actors." Ludio imparts information to Thuriger about the trials presented to Apollo, and recites to the Sexton a small part of his own "Apology" which he had a friend draw up for him (in return for lessons in gaming). He informs Thuriger that his "sachell" was stolen by a Villain while he was presenting his argument, wherein lay all of his "best houshold-stuffe and tooles of [his] trade." After Scopas returns with the frankincense and tells Thuriger that "they are comming hard by," the Sexton finishes his tasks and stays to hear Museus pronounce Apollo's judgements.
TRISTRAM
A "ghost character." Novice names Tristram in a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him, and Implement claims that each boy in this list has "profited very well" under Captaine Complement and himself.
TRUMP
A "ghost character." Novice names Trump in a list of boys who have left "the satchell" and "turne[d] fine gentlemen" while entreating Complement to "consider" tutoring him, and Implement claims that each boy in this list has "profited very well" under Captaine Complement and himself.
USHER, FIRST and SECOND
"Ghost characters." First, Implement informs Novice that the Usher of his and Captaine Complement's school "has had for fees of yong gentlemen at their entrance, above an hundred crownes within this 12 monteth, besides his yearely stipend." At this information, Novice promises to "get a crowne of [his] mother, and twelve pence for [. . .] honest Jacke Implement."
Next, Complement informs Gringle and Implement that he paid "foure Nobles to the Usher of the dancing schoole to learne one tricke, which they cal Le Tourne Fuseau."
VILLAIN
A "ghost character." Ludio informs Thuriger as well as the crowd at the sentencing of disobedient characters at the play's end that his "sachell" was stolen by a Villain while he was making his case in Apollo's Court. With its loss, he claims, lies "the Shipwracke of all [his] best houshold-stuffe, and tooles of [his] trade."