* Anne Shirley: An 11-year-old orphan girl who is sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister who live in a small town on Prince Edward Island, Canada. Anne is imaginative, opinionated, and passionate, and brings joy and chaos to the lives of those around her.
* Marilla Cuthbert: A practical and independent woman who is initially hesitant to take in Anne. However, she gradually grows to love and care for Anne, and becomes a mother figure to her.
* Matthew Cuthbert: Marilla's older brother, who is a kind and gentle man. Matthew is shy and quiet, but he has a deep affection for Anne and goes to great lengths to make her feel welcome and loved.
* Diana Barry: Anne's best friend and a resident of Avonlea, the town where Anne lives. Diana is a kind, cheerful, and loyal friend, and the two girls share many adventures and secrets together.
* Gilbert Blythe: A boy from Avonlea who initially teases Anne for her red hair, calling her "Carrots." However, he later falls in love with her and becomes her rival in school. Gilbert is intelligent, ambitious, and hardworking, and he eventually joins Anne in pursuing higher education.
* Rachel Lynde: A talkative and opinionated woman who lives in Avonlea. Rachel is initially critical of Anne, but she eventually grows to admire her spirit and intelligence.
* Mr. Phillips: The kind and understanding school teacher in Avonlea. Mr. Phillips recognizes Anne's intelligence and potential, and encourages her to pursue her education.
* Mrs. Rachel Lynde: A neighbor and friend of Marilla and Matthew who is known for her gossip and criticism.
* Mr. Barry: Diana's father and a farmer in Avonlea.
These characters form the core relationships in the book and interact in various ways throughout the story, creating a vibrant and memorable community in the small town of Avonlea.