Characters

Learn about the key characters in dishonored, including Corvo Attano, Emily Kaldwin, Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, and Lord Regent Hiram Burrows.

Corvo Attano is the main protagonist of dishonored. Born in Kernaca, he grew up on the streets after his father's death, becoming a capable fighter. At 16, his sword fighting skills earned him a spot in the Grand Serkonian Guard. He later became Royal Protector to Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, with whom he developed a close relationship. While not explicitly stated, some suspect Emily may be his daughter due to their closeness. Corvo was away on official duty seeking a cure for the rat plague when the Empress was murdered and he was framed for her death. He was helped to escape prison by The Loyalist Conspiracy and given supernatural powers by The Outsider. The player controls Corvo as he seeks revenge and aims to rescue Emily.

Empress Jessamine Kaldwin was the Empress of the Empire of the Isles. She was a compassionate and just ruler who ensured her people lived comfortably. Her reign occurred during a time of political conspiracy and the devastating Rat Plague. She is assassinated during the game’s opening sequence and is survived by her daughter, Emily.

Emily Kaldwin is the daughter of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin and the heir to the throne. At the start of the game, she is kidnapped by Hiram Burrows, who holds her captive to gain power. The Loyalist Conspiracy works to rescue her and restore her to the throne. The player's decisions and choices influence her attitude and personality throughout the game.

Lord Regent Hiram Burrows is one of the antagonists in dishonored. He orchestrated the murder of the Empress, hiring the assassin Daud to kill her. He then framed Corvo for the Empress's murder and Emily's kidnapping. Burrows has taken over the government, ruling oppressively and corruptly, which led to the formation of The Loyalist Conspiracy.

Daud is a master assassin and the leader of a group known as The Whalers. He was hired by the Lord Regent to assassinate the Empress and kidnap Emily. Daud is a playable character in the story DLCs, The Knife of Dunwall and The Brigmore Witches. He is one of eight individuals possessing The Outsider’s Mark.