In the remote village of Dunwich, Massachusetts, Wilbur Whateley is the monstrous offspring of Lavinia Whateley, an abnormal and unstable albino mother, and an unknown father. Unusual occurrences mark his birth and rapid growth. By the age of ten, Wilbur has attained manhood. The townspeople avoid him and his family, while animals are repelled by him due to a foul, inhuman scent that emanates from his body. Meanwhile, his grandfather, who is a sorcerer, instructs him in dark rituals and the study of witchcraft.