Lloyd Alexander is unusually strong in characterization. Although the Chronicles of Prydain novels are fantasy, with a few conventionally archetypal roles, such as the wizard and the evil lord of the underworld, most of his major characters are unique and unforgettable individuals. Taran, the protagonist, is a sympathetic, naturally kind and gentle boy but complex in his restless, ambitious nature which is passionately intent on achieving great deeds. He complains of his servile job but is quick to act fearlessly and unselfishly when he discovers that his charge, Hen Wen, is missing.

The new characters in The Black Cauldron are introduced as foils to Taran, who is less central to the narrative in this work. One is Adaon, a man of honor and integrity and a true friend to the young pig-keeper, but a man fated to die in the struggle against the evil lord and his cauldron-born...