Final answer:
In "The Knight's Tale", the four main characters are Theseus, Duke of Athens; Palamon and Arcite, two imprisoned knights; and Emelye, the object of their affection. These characters play significant roles in driving the plot and exploring themes of love, honor, and fate.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "The Knight's Tale", the four main characters are Theseus, Duke of Athens; Palamon and Arcite, two imprisoned knights; and Emelye, the object of their affection. These characters are significant to the tale because they drive the plot and explore themes of love, honor, and fate.
Theseus serves as the ruler who provides the initial context for the story and becomes an influential figure throughout. Palamon and Arcite are central to the narrative, as their rivalry over Emelye drives the conflict of the tale and exposes the complexities of desire and loyalty. Emelye, though a more passive character, symbolizes beauty and serves as the catalyst for the knights' rivalry.