Arthur Parnassus is the novel’s protagonist, a magical being—a phoenix—who can create fire and take both the form of a human man and an enormous, flaming bird. Because of his powerful abilities, Arthur was consigned to the Marsyas Orphanage for magical children for many years. There, he was both physically and emotionally abused. His terrible experiences shaped Arthur into an adult devoted to protecting other magical beings, especially children.

Arthur is a loving and patient figure who is devoted to his partner, Linus, and to all of the children in his care. Arthur openly demonstrates his love for Linus and the children, even before others who disapprove. He is confident enough to be silly and vulnerable, participating enthusiastically in the children’s eccentric hobbies and comic banter, listening thoughtfully to their concerns, and apologizing unreservedly when he believes he is wrong. His consistently open-minded embrace of what makes Linus and each of the children unique and his devotion to helping those he loves become the best possible versions of themselves work to greatly improve Linus’s and the children’s confidence and happiness, making Arthur a representation of The Transformative Power of Love.