The Monk - A Romance

Claimed by critics as a story filled with “Lust, murder, incest, and every atrocity that can disgrace human nature”, Matthew Lewis became quite the scandal when the 20 year old published this novel in 1796. Over 200 years later and the book still garners attention as readers dive into themes of lust, temptation, and murder within a religious church. Written as a criticism and exploration of the limits of moral restraint, The Monk goes full force in its recount of a Monk’s journey of self-reflection from respectable authoritarian to impulsive, guilt-ridden man. A much a social commentary as it is a true gothic novel, Lewis gives his readers a page turner at every corner.