Count Fosco is a character from the novel "The Woman in White," written by Wilkie Collins. He is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative antagonist, known for his intelligence and charm. Fosco is a large man with a distinctive appearance, often described as having a pale complexion and a fondness for animals, particularly mice. Fosco plays a crucial role in the story, as he is involved in various schemes to control the lives of other characters, including Laura Fairlie and Walter Hartright. His actions drive much of the plot's tension, making him a memorable figure in Victorian literature.