The Abominable Snowman

A physician-scientist on a Himalayan expedition who pursues the Yeti with cautious curiosity. He weighs scientific observation against ethical concerns and resists sensational trapping. Rollason advocates restraint and humane treatment of wildlife, ultimately facing the possibility that the Yeti may be intelligent. He concludes that what he sought may not exist, asserting a disciplined scientific skepticism.

A fame-hungry expedition leader who intends to trap a live Yeti for the world's press. He pushes for dangerous setups and uses others to forward his plan, showing a reckless willingness to risk lives for glory. His manipulation and short-sightedness lead to fatal consequences and moral ambiguity about exploration ethics. His plan ultimately collapses in tragedy as nature asserts itself.

Rollason's wife, cautious yet supportive; she embodies practical concern for safety and the welfare of others. She participates in the rescue effort and calmly weighs romantic curiosity against danger. Helen's presence anchors the moral dimension of the mission and underscores the human cost of reckless pursuit.

A trapper with a volatile temperament who sets a bear trap and ultimately shoots at a Yeti. His fear-driven actions trigger cascading consequences, revealing how panic can escalate into tragedy. Shelley’s fate underscores the risks of improvisational expeditions and the moral fallout of violence.

A photographer who feels the Yeti's proximity and is eager to document it. He is physically and emotionally drawn into the danger, suffering a fatal misstep after being haunted by the creature's calls. McNee's death marks the human cost of obsession and the unseen perils of deep wilderness exploration.

A Sherpa guide who first witnesses the Yeti and conveys the mystery through a poignant cry. He flees back to safety, serving as a witness to the unknown and a reminder of cultural reverence for the mountains. Kusang embodies the bridge between local knowledge and Western curiosity.

The Lama of Rong-ruk monastery, a spiritual authority who cautions against reckless investigation. He represents tradition and temperance in the face of danger and unfamiliar science. Lhama's presence highlights the tension between spiritual wisdom and worldly ambition.

Rollason's colleague and physician who acts as the voice of caution within the expedition. He helps manage risk and participates in the rescue effort, balancing scientific goals with practical safety. Fox contributes to the ethical discourse surrounding the Yeti encounter.

The legendary cryptid observed in close proximity, portrayed as intelligent and capable of influencing human perception. The Yeti's presence is a catalyst for fear, awe, and philosophical reflection about humanity's place on Earth. Its actions provoke a crisis of ethics and a reconsideration of humankind's relationship with wildlife.