Sir Dominick's Bargain

Name: Sir Dominick's Bargain
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu

In the autumn of 1838, a traveler journeys through the picturesque south of Ireland, drawn to a dilapidated mansion known as Dunoran House. Intrigued by its melancholic beauty, he explores the ruins and encounters a hunchbacked man who recounts the tragic tale of Sir Dominick Sarsfield, the last of the Sarsfield lineage. Once a wealthy and jovial lord, Sir Dominick squandered his fortune on lavish parties and gambling, leading to his financial ruin. After years of absence, he returns to his estate, burdened by debt and despair. In a moment of desperation, he meets a mysterious stranger in the woods, who offers him a deal: wealth and success in exchange for his service for seven years, after which the stranger would claim his soul. Sir Dominick accepts the bargain, receiving a bag of gold that revitalizes his fortunes. He indulges in his former lifestyle, but as the end of the seven years approaches, he becomes increasingly troubled. Despite his newfound wealth, he is haunted by the consequences of his pact. Seeking redemption, he consults a priest, who advises him to lead a virtuous life until the contract expires. On the eve of the deadline, Sir Dominick celebrates with friends, unaware that the date is actually February 29, a leap year, extending his time. As the clock strikes midnight, the devil appears to claim him. In a panic, Sir Dominick seeks help from the priest, but it is too late. The devil confronts him, and in a violent encounter, Sir Dominick meets a gruesome end. The tale serves as a cautionary story about the perils of greed and the consequences of making deals with dark forces. The traveler, having heard the legend, departs the village, leaving behind the haunted ruins of Dunoran and the tragic fate of Sir Dominick Sarsfield.

By Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu · First published 1860 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Dark Fantasy, Historical Fiction · 7,226 words

First lines

In the early autumn of the year 1838, business called me to the south of Ireland. The weather was delightful, the scenery and people were new to me, and sending my luggage on by the mail-coach route in charge of a servant, I hired a serviceable nag at a posting-house, and, full of the curiosity of an explorer, I commenced a leisurely journey of five-and-twenty miles on horseback, by sequestered crossroads, to my place of destination. By bog and hill, by plain and ruined castle, and many a winding stream, my picturesque road led me.

What this Textopian page supports

Sir Dominick's Bargain is listed on Textopian as a short story by Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu, dated 1860 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu
Date: 1860 CE
Language: English
Genres: Gothic Fiction, Dark Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Adventure
Length: 7,226 words
Structure: 1 section, 118 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Gothic Fiction — The story features elements typical of Gothic fiction, including a decaying mansion, supernatural themes, and a sense of dread.
Dark Fantasy — The narrative involves a bargain with a supernatural entity, exploring themes of temptation and moral consequences.
Historical Fiction — Set in 1838 Ireland, the story incorporates historical context and cultural elements of the time.
Tragedy — The protagonist's downfall and the tragic consequences of his choices align with the characteristics of a tragic narrative.