In a Glass Darkly

Name: In a Glass Darkly
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu

The work consists of a collection of supernatural tales, each exploring themes of the uncanny, the psychological, and the metaphysical. The narratives are framed through the perspective of a medical philosopher, Dr. Martin Hesselius, who investigates various cases that intertwine the realms of medicine and the supernatural. In the first story, a clergyman named Mr. Jennings experiences a haunting presence in the form of a small black monkey that appears to torment him. This monkey symbolizes his inner turmoil and guilt, leading to a series of psychological and physical breakdowns. Jennings' struggle culminates in a tragic end, as he succumbs to the overwhelming influence of the creature, which represents his unresolved fears and past actions. The second tale revolves around a judge, Mr. Justice Harbottle, who faces a reckoning for his past misdeeds. He is haunted by the specter of a man he wronged, Lewis Pyneweck, who was wrongfully executed due to the judge's corrupt practices. As Harbottle grapples with his guilt, he becomes increasingly paranoid and tormented by visions of Pyneweck, leading to his eventual demise. The narrative explores themes of justice, retribution, and the psychological consequences of one's actions. The final story features a character who encounters a mysterious figure that seems to embody the essence of death and fate. This figure, referred to as "The Watcher," follows the protagonist, instilling a sense of dread and inevitability. The protagonist's attempts to escape this presence lead to a deeper exploration of existential themes, as he confronts the nature of life, death, and the unseen forces that govern human existence. Throughout the collection, the author employs a blend of gothic elements, psychological depth, and philosophical inquiry, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that challenge the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. The stories serve as cautionary tales, reflecting on the human condition and the consequences of one's choices, ultimately leaving readers with a lingering sense of unease and contemplation.

By Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu · First published 1872 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Horror, Supernatural Fiction · 5 chapters · 135,488 words

First lines

Though carefully educated in medicine and surgery, I have never practised either. The study of each continues, nevertheless, to interest me profoundly. Neither idleness nor caprice caused my secession from the honourable calling which I had just entered. The cause was a very trifling scratch inflicted by a dissecting knife. This trifle cost me the loss of two fingers, amputated promptly, and the more painful loss of my health, for I have never been quite well since, and have seldom been twelve months together in the same place.

What this Textopian page supports

In a Glass Darkly is listed on Textopian as a novel by Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu, dated 1872 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu
Date: 1872 CE
Language: English
Genres: Gothic Fiction, Horror, Supernatural Fiction, Mystery, Victorian Literature
Length: 135,488 words
Structure: 5 chapters, 2,439 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Gothic Fiction — The book features dark themes, supernatural elements, and a brooding atmosphere typical of Gothic literature.
Horror — It includes unsettling and eerie narratives that evoke fear and dread.
Supernatural Fiction — The stories involve ghosts, spirits, and other supernatural occurrences.
Mystery — The plots often revolve around enigmatic events and the unraveling of secrets.