The Prince and the Pauper

Main Characters and Their Development

• Tom Canty (the pauper) — a boy from a poor family living in Offal Court. His accidental meeting with Edward Tudor, heir to the English throne, and subsequent switch of places leads him to the trials of royal court life. Throughout, Tom learns the manners and customs of the court but remains true to his principles and desires justice for all.
• Edward Tudor, Prince of Wales — heir to the English throne, who, after switching places with Tom Canty, immerses himself in the life of ordinary people. During his adventure outside the palace walls, he encounters cruelty and injustice, leading to his spiritual growth. Edward gains a firmer understanding of a king's duties to his subjects and resolves to become a wise and just ruler.
• John Canty — Tom's father, a rough and cruel man who lives by drinking and crime. His character demonstrates the lower aspects of life in Offal Court and serves as a contrast to the royal life Tom enters.
• Henry VIII — King of England, Edward's father. He lives at the end of his reign and dies during the events of the novel, leading Edward to the English throne. His death reflects a transitional moment in England's history and serves as the culmination of the main characters' trials.