1. Carmen: A spirited and independent Gypsy woman who works at a cigarette factory.
2. Don José: A naïve young soldier who is seduced by Carmen and becomes her lover.
3. Micaëla: A virtuous young woman who is in love with Don José and tries to save him from Carmen's clutches.
4. Escamillo: A charismatic bullfighter who captures Carmen's attention and becomes her rival for Don José's affections.
5. Zuniga: The commanding officer of the soldiers at the cigarette factory who is attracted to Carmen.
6. Morales: Zuniga's sergeant and a friend of Don José.
7. Frasquita: A Gypsy woman and friend of Carmen's who works at the cigarette factory.
8. Mercédès: Another Gypsy woman and friend of Carmen's who works at the cigarette factory.
9. Dancaïre: A smuggler and friend of Carmen's who helps her escape from prison.
10. Remendado: A smuggler and friend of Carmen's who helps her escape from prison.