Khartoum

A renowned British general tasked with evacuating troops, whose unorthodox leadership and deep faith drive his decisions. He disregards overt government orders, choosing action over caution, becoming both celebrated and controversial. His forceful, charismatic approach tests the boundaries between official policy and personal conviction.

A former Bombay Army colonel now operating as a private contractor paid by the Egyptian government. He is ultimately defeated by Mahdist forces, and his death sparks widespread public demand for British action. His fate becomes a catalyst for imperial decision-making.

Nubian religious leader who proclaims himself Mahdi and commands the Mahdist forces. He seeks to seize Khartoum as a demonstration of power and religious purpose, presenting a formidable ideological and military challenge to the British garrison.

British Prime Minister under intense public pressure to avenge Hicks. He is reluctant to commit troops directly, preferring to use Gordon’s mission to deflect responsibility. His decisions reveal the political tightrope of empire and domestic opinion.

Foreign Secretary who recognizes the political expediency of Gordon’s mission and the façade of responsibility it creates. He weighs diplomacy against imperial risk and public sentiment.

British relief commander whose planned expedition is large in scope but delayed by political and logistical considerations. He embodies the strategic side of imperial response to Khartoum’s crisis.

Gordon’s aide who travels to London to explain the Khartoum situation. Pragmatic and skeptical, he underscores the tension between on-the-ground realities and political assurances.

Former slaver who is approached in a bid to recruit local allies; his inability to assist underscores the complexities of local diplomacy and alliance-building in wartime Khartoum.

A local religious or tribal leader encountered by Gordon; represents the regional dimension of the conflict and the interplay between colonial figures and local authorities.

A British officer figure within the Khartoum milieu, contributing to the broader military context surrounding the siege and relief efforts.

British aristocrat involved in the political-access layer of imperial decision-making, illustrating the upper-class dimension of governance during the crisis.