Description
Book Synopsis: ‘Few could sustain the glance of his eye, at once fiery and penetrating’
Savaged by critics for its supposed profanity and obscenity, and bought in large numbers by readers eager to see whether it lived up to its lurid reputation, The Monk became a succès de scandale when it was published in 1796 – not least because its author was a member of parliament and only twenty years old. It recounts the diabolical decline of Ambrosio, a Capuchin superior, who succumbs first to temptations offered by a young girl who has entered his monastery disguised as a boy, and continues his descent with increasingly depraved acts of sorcery, murder, incest and torture. Combining sensationalism with acute psychological insight, this masterpiece of Gothic fiction is a powerful exploration of how violent and erotic impulses can break through the barriers of social and moral restraint.
This edition is based on the first edition of 1796, which appeared before Lewis’s revisions to avoid charges of blasphemy. In his introduction, Christopher MacLachlan discusses the novel’s place within the Gothic genre, and its themes of sexual desire and the abuse of power.
For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
Details
Discover the scandalous and captivating world of Gothic fiction with The Monk (Penguin Classics). This provocative novel, published in 1796, caused quite a stir with its supposed profanity and obscenity. Written by a young member of parliament, the story follows the diabolical descent of Ambrosio, a Capuchin superior, as he succumbs to temptations and engages in increasingly depraved acts of sorcery, murder, incest, and torture.
As you delve into this gripping tale, you'll be drawn into a dark and twisted journey that combines sensationalism with intricate psychological insight. The Monk explores the boundaries of social and moral restraint, offering a profound exploration of the powerful and often destructive nature of violent and erotic impulses.
For those seeking an authentic reading experience, this edition is based on the first 1796 publication, reflecting the author's original intentions before revisions were made to prevent charges of blasphemy. With an insightful introduction by Christopher MacLachlan, this edition places the novel within the Gothic genre and examines its underlying themes of sexual desire and the abuse of power.
As a trusted publisher of classic literature for over seventy years, Penguin Classics continues to bring you the finest works throughout history. With more than 1,700 titles, our collection represents a global bookshelf catering to diverse interests. Our editions boast authoritative texts with introductions and notes by esteemed scholars and contemporary authors, guaranteeing an enriching reading experience. Experience the allure of Gothic fiction today with The Monk (Penguin Classics).
Ready to dive into the scandalous world of The Monk (Penguin Classics)? Click here to order now and embark on a thrilling journey into the depths of Gothic fiction.
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