Here is a list of the characters in the game...all of them! As I get time of course :P I've put in basically what I think needs to be known, plus lil stuff by me.
LINK
The hero, of course, and the first key figure in the game. As the Hero of Time, Link has his share of hardships. It's not easy being on the go 24/7...this guy never sleeps! Link starts his adventures as a 10 year-old kid living in an enchanted forest. As he journeys Hyrule, he gains much skill and wisdom...more than most 10 year-olds. Heck, when I was 10, I sure didn't go around killing huge spiders and giant, fire-breathing dinosaurs. Alien invaders maybe...but no dinosaurs!
Through his journeys, Link acquires many new friends, as well. Zelda, Princess Ruto, Darunia and Navi, just to name a few. His friends become integral parts of completeing his quest, as he learns after pulling the Master Sword from the Pedastal of Time.
When he does so, Link is transported 7 years into the future, where he learns of the dark fate that has befallen Hyrule. As he and Navi venture out to free the sages and return peace to the land, Link is harrowed by Ganondorf's minions at every step. He meets old friends, makes new ones, and relives long past memories.
I'd say that Link is my favorite character. He's cool, he's buff (kinda), and he's well...a hero! His emotions make the game come alive, as well as those from others. He's a great game character, possibly the best of all time.
NAVI
Navi is Link's fairy guardian, sent to him by the Great Deku Tree. Navi helps Link greatly in his quest (although some may argue this). She keeps him on track, searches out the weak points of monsters, and allows Link to hit a little more accurately.
Because Link is not a true Kokiri, Navi leaves him when his quest is completed. Link does, however get help from Navi's kin in the later years to come.
I really liked Navi when I first played, but she does get a little annoying after you have played through the game once. She is still quite helpful though, and I wouldn't trade her for any other fairy :)
PRINCESS ZELDA
Ahh...Princess Zelda. The second of three key figures in the game.