Exactly WHO Was Biederbeck?

Last time I’ve seen this was as a child in the early 70’s. From childhood I remember him decaying at the very end and dying, much like a vampire would. Ironic considering Quarry’s most famous role would be that of a vampire in Count Yorga. But seriously, did the movie attempt to even say who he was and what was going on?

It’s been ages since I’ve last seen this so I can’t possibly remember but I’d like to know. In the movie, did Phibes truly KNOW who he was?

I’ve got no complaints against him, he seemed like a standup guy to me, I mean he didn’t ditch his lady love or resign her to a terrible death because he was all about himself but we now know he had reasons to be but he put Diana before himself which was noble considering. Have to give this a rewatch again sometime soon.