The Thing on the Doorstep characters

Appears from the start

A resident of Arkham who narrates the history of his lifelong friendship with Edward Derby. He begins by admitting that he shot Derby at Arkham Sanitarium and argues that the events leading to the killing will explain his action.

Also known as Edward Pickman Derby

Appears from the start

Daniel Upton's closest friend, an Arkham poet and scholar of the occult. A precocious but sheltered child, he grows into a talented, emotionally dependent man whose parents continue to manage much of his daily life.

First appears in chapter 2

A student of occult subjects at Miskatonic University whom Edward Derby meets and marries. She comes from Innsmouth, has a forceful manner, and is reputed among other students to possess an unusual ability to impose her will on people.

First appears in chapter 2

Asenath's late father, a feared Innsmouth recluse who taught himself sorcery and left behind an extensive occult library. His appearance and reputation made him an object of suspicion even among people accustomed to Innsmouth's secrets.

First appears in chapter 3

Three taciturn people from Innsmouth who maintain Asenath's household after her marriage to Edward. Their continued loyalty to the Waite family and their guarded behavior deepen Daniel's unease about the Derby home.