* Violet Baudelaire: the eldest Baudelaire sibling, known for her intelligence and mechanical skills
* Klaus Baudelaire: the middle Baudelaire sibling, known for his love of books and thirst for knowledge
* Sunny Baudelaire: the youngest Baudelaire sibling, a toddler with sharp teeth and an insatiable appetite
* Mr. Poe
* The banker in charge of the Baudelaire orphans' financial affairs, he often seems clueless and unhelpful.
* Count Olaf
* The villainous antagonist who is determined to steal the Baudelaire orphans' fortune. He is known for his elaborate disguises and evil plans.
* The Quagmire Triplets
* Duncan Quagmire: the eldest of the Quagmire triplets, known for his athleticism and bravery.
* Isadora Quagmire: the middle Quagmire triplet, known for her love of fashion and performing arts.
* Quigley Quagmire: the youngest Quagmire triplet, known for his intelligence and love of literature.
* Justice Strauss
* The judge who presides over the Baudelaire orphans' trial and decides their fate.
* The White-Faced Women
* Two mysterious and sinister women who assist Count Olaf in his evil schemes.
* The Village of Briny Beach
* The setting for the book, a small town where the Baudelaire orphans are sent to live.