Raoden is one of the three protagonists and point-of-view characters in the novel. He has been the crown prince of the country of Arelon for 10 years, ever since his father, Iadon, seized power in the confusion and unrest that followed the collapse of Elantris known as the Reod. Before that, Iadon was a merchant. Radon’s mother died more than 10 years ago. He respected and misses her, and Sarene reminds him of his mother in some ways. Raoden has less respect for his father and opposes the king’s policies. Instead, Raoden has grown up guided and aided by Duke Roial, who, like Raoden, is a man of principle and kindness.

Raoden is described by his friends as brilliant, gentle, and optimistic. He is a moral person who wants the best for those around him and believes the same ethics should apply to all. When he was a child, he attempted to free his seon, Ien, because he was afraid that Ien was being forced to serve him. Instead of fighting when he first enters Elantris, Raoden seeks an alliance with Galloden, preferring friendship over survival of the fittest rivalry or using his rank as prince to take command.