There are likely to be some characters who are on the fringes of society, like recluses or those with an interest in the occult. They might be the ones who stumble upon the secrets related to the death of the great god Pan or other horror - inducing events. Also, there could be some characters who are in positions of authority but are powerless against the supernatural forces at play in the stories.
In many horror stories, including those in this collection, there may be a protagonist who is a bit of an outsider, someone who doesn't quite fit in with the norm. This character might be the first to notice the strange occurrences related to the death of Pan. And then there are probably the antagonists, which could be the manifestations of the horror itself, whether it's a physical entity or some sort of dark power that is unleashed due to the death of the god. These characters drive the plot forward by creating conflict and fear for the main characters.
Since I haven't read every single story in detail, it's hard to name all the main characters. But typically, there are often ordinary humans who find themselves in extraordinary and terrifying situations. These characters are usually the ones through whom we experience the horror of the stories.
The themes include the power of the past. In 'The Great God Pan is Dead and Other Horror Stories', the past seems to have a lingering and often malevolent influence. It can be in the form of old legends like that of Pan coming back to haunt the present. Also, the theme of mortality is present. The death of the great god Pan might be seen as a metaphor for the inescapability of death, and how we as humans react to the knowledge of our own mortality through fear and dread.
The settings in the stories can be a horror element too. Dark, isolated places are often described, like deep forests where the Great God Pan is associated with. These settings create a spooky atmosphere, making it seem that danger could lurk anywhere, and the characters are always on the verge of encountering something terrifying.
I'm not entirely sure, but I think there is a character who somehow gets involved with the presence or influence of the great god Pan.
The way it builds suspense in the stories is also a big influence. 'Great God Pan and Other Horror Stories' often slowly reveals the horror, which makes the readers' anticipation and fear grow steadily. Many modern horror novels and short stories use this technique to keep the readers engaged.
There may be other contemporary authors who have been inspired by Machen's 'The Great God Pan' and have written works with similar themes. However, they are not as well - known as Machen in this specific regard. Machen was a pioneer in exploring the idea of this ancient god in the context of horror literature, and his influence can be seen in the works of later horror writers who also deal with themes of pagan deities and the unknown.
Since I don't know the exact content of the 'pan book of horror stories', it's hard to say. But it could have a brave detective as a main character who is trying to solve the mystery behind a series of strange deaths in a spooky mansion.
Since we don't have the specific details of the book, it's likely that the main characters are the 'dead girls' themselves. They would be central to the stories as the title implies.
I'm not sure exactly as I haven't read the novel in detail. But they could be people on a journey of faith, like a devout believer who tries to prove God's existence to the skeptics.
One of the well - known 'The Great God Pan' horror novels is Arthur Machen's 'The Great God Pan' itself. It is a classic in the horror genre that delves into the idea of a pagan god and the terrors that its awakening can bring. It often plays with themes of the unknown, the power of ancient entities, and the fragility of the human mind when faced with such ineffable horrors.
I'm not sure as I haven't read the book specifically, but probably the doctor of horror is one of the main characters.