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An unnamed English writer who resides in India and strives to make money from his experiences. He possesses a somewhat pluralist mindset, respecting local customs and deities, yet maintains firm loyalty to the British Empire. He often uses dry humor to mask his discomfort during tense cultural clashes and feels slightly removed from the typical colonial adventurer class.
Close Friend of Strickland
Casual Acquaintance of Fleete
Startled by The Silver Man
Respectful Observer of Hanuman
Acquaintance of Dr. Dumoise
An English police officer who has lived in India for a long time. He possesses extensive knowledge of the local people, their language, and their customs, which he uses to maintain colonial authority. Despite his empathy and understanding of the Indian population, his profession firmly roots him as an outsider who governs the local residents.
Trusted Confidant of The Narrator
Frustrated Host to Fleete
Professional Associate of Dr. Dumoise
Opponent of The Silver Man
Respecter of Hanuman
A newly arrived English colonizer staying at Strickland's home. He represents the stark ignorance of the occupying forces, possessing zero understanding of local Indian customs. His heavy drinking and inherent sense of cultural superiority prompt him to act recklessly, culminating in a highly offensive gesture at a sacred site.
Houseguest of Strickland
Drinking Companion of The Narrator
Desecrator of Hanuman
Confronted by The Silver Man
Patient of Dr. Dumoise
A mysterious, naked priest suffering from advanced leprosy, which gives his skin a frosted silver appearance. The disease has left him faceless and missing his hands and feet. Despite his physical condition, he acts as a terrifying protector of the temple's sanctity and responds swiftly to the desecration of his sacred space.
The local English doctor in the colonial station. He relies entirely on Western science and rational medical diagnoses to explain the world around him. His strict adherence to traditional science limits his ability to comprehend anything outside the realm of standard biology.
The revered Monkey-god of the local Indian population. According to tradition, he represents strength and unwavering loyalty. His temple stands as a central place of worship and community for the local people, contrasting sharply with the Englishmen's dismissive colonial attitudes.