The Monk

First published in 1796, this Gothic novel is set mainly in Madrid. Ambrosio, a celebrated Capuchin preacher famous for austerity, is tempted by Matilda, who enters the abbey disguised as a novice, and then pursues the innocent Antonia. Rape, murder, the Inquisition, and a pact with the devil follow as his pride and lust destroy him and those around him. A parallel plot follows Agnes, a nun imprisoned for a secret pregnancy, and her lover Raymond. The book is a tale of clerical hypocrisy and sexual violence, not a saint's life.

Quarter bound in black cloth with red, white and black Cockerell marbled paper boards. Black slipcase.