Mordecai exhibits a true fear of God, putting it before the fear of man. He does his duty without seeking reward. Raised to prominence, he shows generosity, justice and mercy. Although exiled, he had not lost his sense of identity as a Jew (2:5–6). No matter what the pressures were to compromise, he determined to keep God’s law (3:2–4) and trust God (4:15–17). Lesser characters are also deserving of attention. Vashti is not described in detail, but she exhibits courage, dignity and resolution. Haman’s