Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Jokanaan

Jokanaan is the closest thing we have to a guide in the play, although it doesn't seem as though any of the characters are following his directions. In fact, he's actually in jail because he spoke out and said that Herod's marriage to Herodias was sinful and incestuous.

And while many of his proclamations are cryptic, he is very clear when it comes to advising Salomé. Jokanaan's entire mission is to guide people to the Messiah, and though he may be unsuccessful in guiding Salomé, his role remains unchanged.