The Monk by Matthew Lewis

The Monk

Author: Matthew Lewis

Ambrosio, the worthy superior of the Capuchins of Madrid, falls to the temptations of Matilda, a fiend-inspired wanton who, disguised as a boy, has entered his monastery as a novice. Ambrosio then falls in love with one of his penitents and finally kills her in order to escape detection. However, he is discovered, tortured by the Inquisition and sentenced to death. Although extravagant in its mixture of the supernatural, the terrible, and the indecent, the book contains scenes of great effect. The novel is a prime example of 18th century Gothic, written partly in response to Walpole and Radcliffe and enjoyed a considerable contemporary vogue.

The Monk: Penguin English Library

By Matthew Lewis

Shocking, erotic and violent, The Monk is the story of Ambrosio, torn between his spiritual vows and the temptations of physical pleasure. His internal battle leads to sexual obsession, rape and murder, yet this book also contains knowing parody of its own excesses as well as social comedy.

Written by Matthew Lewis when he was only nineteen, it was a ground-breaking novel in the Gothic Horror genre...

Published: 22/08/2012

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780141199467

RRP: $9.99

The Monk: Pocket Penguin Classics

By Matthew Lewis

Lust, sorcery and torture – the secrets of a Spanish monastery

Ambrosio, a pious monk, finds himself drawn to his pupil, Matilda, a young woman in disguise. Unable to control himself, he sates his lust, and soon tires of her. But Matilda has more than her body to offer: using black magic, she will help Ambrosio seduce the innocent Antonia. As his desperate acts become more and more depraved...

Lust, sorcery and torture – the secrets of a Spanish monastery

Ambrosio, a pious monk, finds himself drawn to his pupil, Matilda, a young woman in disguise. Unable to control himself, he sates his...

Published: 03/03/2010

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780141191966

RRP: $19.95