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The Monk
 Title page of first edition | |
| Author | Matthew Gregory Lewis |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Gothic novel |
Publication date | 12 March 1796[1] |
| Media type | Print (novel) |
The Monk: A Romance is a Gothic novel by Matthew Gregory Lewis, published in 1796 across three volumes. Written early in Lewis's career, it was published before he turned twenty, and he withheld his name from the first edition. It tells the story of a virtuous monk who gives into his lustful urges, setting off a chain of events that leave him damned. It is a prime example of the type of Gothic that specializes in horror.[2]
Upon publication, the novel proved scandalous. Readers were shocked by its sexually explicit content, and themes of rape and incest, leading it to become arguably the most controversial Gothic novel of the 18th century.[3] There was public outcry, but the novel was hugely popular.[4][5] Over time, Lewis came to feel that its writing had been in poor taste. Later editions were heavily censored by the author himself.[3]
The Monk is considered part of the gothic literary canon, a forerunner to the popular gothic novels of the 19th century, and an influence on the modern horror genre.[6] It has been adapted or significantly inspired a number of plays, films, and writings.
- ^ "The Early Editions and Issues of The Monk, with a Bibliography by William B. Todd". University of Virginia Library. 1949.
- ^ Sim, Stuart. "The Monk: A Romance". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 30 June 2002 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=139, accessed 12 July 2024.]
- ^ a b Kirk, Tanya (27 September 2016). "The Monk, the Bible and obscenity". British Library. Retrieved 12 July 2024.
- ^ "Matthew Gregory Lewis | Gothic Novelist, Horror Fiction, Gothic Romance | Britannica". www.britannica.com. 5 July 2024. Retrieved 15 July 2024.
- ^ "The Monk Summary". SuperSummary. Retrieved 15 July 2024.
- ^ Ceffalio, Henry (6 March 2023). "The Great Monk Controversy: Religious, Moral, and Literary Criticism on The Monk, 1796-98". The Channel. McGill Department of English Undergraduate Review. Retrieved 15 July 2024.
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