The Prisoner
The Prisoner to whom "The Conscientious Objector" is addressed is a newly imprisoned man who is only just realizing how his future has been taken from him. He is punished with suffering which accomplishes no good, unlike the soldier who is honored for suffering to supposedly save others. Somehow, still, the prisoner is satisfied with his punishment, viewing it as just.
The Ancient Lady
She is the sole, constant patron of a garden Shapiro visited years ago in "A Garden in Chicago." Her dedication is compared to a patrol, as if she has taken upon herself the task of guarding these flowers and keeping them sheltered from the hectic city life outside the walls of the garden.
The Deans
The Deans of "University" are compared to aging spinsters in a domestic scene. They add a layer of dust and decorum to the place, as they reach all types of students with their repetitive words. They've rehearsed these lessons and it shows.
The True Nobleman
The true nobleman of "University" is a former graduate. A relic of the past, he once took pride in his position in and after the school. Now the scholars in the school are taught to despise this man, having long since overthrown the ideas which he was taught to uphold -- racist ideology, democracy, etc. While he once had high hopes, he is now ashamed.
