The Monk

Penguin Classics

By: Matthew Lewis

Narrated by: Harry Hadden-Paton

Brought to you by Penguin.

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.

Fascinating

No idea what to expect upon entering this novel. It seemed fitting to read as some favorite books, stories and novels were based on or inspired by this work. While still working through some of the novel’s themes, the blend of human and supernatural horrors was very engaging. Some elements drug on while others were exceptionally engaging. Enjoyable.

The best of Gothic, the worst of nightmares

This book is a delicious journey of terror and the grotesque, each certainty we have gets warped and distorted by desire and there seems to be no happy ending in sight for anyone. The story is wonderful and horrible at the same time, the writing is superb and the characters are just perfect (Matilda you horrible woman I love you), and the ACTING OF THE READER? Incredible. You will not regret reading this book via audible with Harry Hadden-Paton’s performance, he truly understood the pathos required and I had goosebumps during many of the pivotal scenes thanks to his reading. 100/10, Lewis does not disappoint.