Cymbeline Characters

The Frenchman is an acquaintance of Posthumus from their soldiering days in Orleans. He describes Posthumus’ past, and says that the two fought over the merits of their respective countrywomen. He encounters Posthumus in Rome at Philario’s house.

The First and Second Gentlemen are members of Cymbeline’s court. At the very beginning of the play, they introduce the strife in Cymbeline’s family, caused by Imogen’s secret marriage to Posthumus.

The two Roman Senators establish the configuration of troops for the British invasion. They explain that, in addition to forces fighting in Gallia, soldiers will need to be recruited from among the Roman gentry for the upcoming war.

The Tribunes (Roman officials elected by the plebeians, or lower social class) discuss the invasion with the Senators and receive a commission for the battle.

The Ghost of Posthumus’ mother visits him in the dream vision. She explains that she died while giving birth to Posthumus and begs Jupiter to relieve Posthumus of his misery.

The Ghosts of Posthumus’ brothers also visit Posthumus in his dream vision. They explain how they died in battle and remained loyal to their country, and they say that Posthumus has been largely loyal to Cymbeline. For this, they ask Jupiter to restore Posthumus to favor.

The Roman Captain keeps Lucius up to date about the latest military developments from Rome. He ensures that Fidele—swooning after finding Cloten’s body—is, indeed, alive, which prompts Lucius to take Fidele on as a servant.