Strange Event in the Life of Schalken the Painte

Name: Strange Event in the Life of Schalken the Painter
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu

The narrative recounts the life of a Dutch painter, who becomes infatuated with his master's niece, Rose Velderkaust. Schalken, the painter, is a diligent student under Gerard Douw, who is unaware of Schalken's feelings for Rose. As Schalken's affection deepens, he learns that he must wait for success in his art to win her hand, as her guardian, Douw, would not approve of a union with a struggling artist. One evening, while working late in Douw's studio, Schalken encounters a mysterious stranger, Mynher Vanderhausen, who delivers a message to Douw. Vanderhausen expresses a desire to marry Rose and offers a substantial dowry, which Douw finds appealing despite the stranger's unsettling demeanor. Vanderhausen's wealth and insistence lead Douw to agree to the marriage, signing a contract that binds Rose to the stranger. On the night of the engagement, Vanderhausen arrives, but his appearance is grotesque and unsettling, causing discomfort to Douw and Schalken. Despite Rose's initial fear, Douw dismisses her concerns, believing that wealth can outweigh physical appearance. Shortly after the marriage, Rose mysteriously disappears, leaving Douw anxious and confused. In the years that follow, Schalken's ambition grows, but he remains haunted by Rose's absence. Douw, concerned for his niece, travels to Rotterdam to find her but discovers that Vanderhausen is a phantom, with no trace of him or Rose in the city. One night, Rose returns, disheveled and frantic, pleading for help. She exhibits signs of terror and hunger, consuming food ravenously. As she recovers, she expresses fear of Vanderhausen, claiming he is with her. When Douw leaves the room to fetch a candle, the door slams shut, and Rose's screams fill the air. When they finally break in, she has vanished, leaving no trace behind. Years later, Schalken, now an established artist, encounters a vision of Rose in a church, leading him to a hidden chamber where he sees Vanderhausen's corpse. This encounter solidifies the mystery of Rose's fate, leaving Schalken with a haunting memory and a painting that captures the essence of his lost love. The story concludes with the unresolved fate of Rose and the enigmatic nature of Vanderhausen, emphasizing themes of love, ambition, and the supernatural.

By Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu · First published 1837 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Mystery, Romance · 10,803 words

First lines

You will no doubt be surprised, my dear friend, at the subject of the following narrative. What had I to do with Schalken, or Schalken with me? He had returned to his native land, and was probably dead and buried, before I was born; I never visited Holland nor spoke with a native of that country. So much I believe you already know. I must, then, give you my authority, and state to you frankly the ground upon which rests the credibility of the strange story which I am, about to lay before you.

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Strange Event in the Life of Schalken the Painter is listed on Textopian as a short story by Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu, dated 1837 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu
Date: 1837 CE
Language: English
Genres: Gothic Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Historical Fiction, Supernatural
Length: 10,803 words
Structure: 1 section, 170 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Gothic Fiction — The story features elements of horror, the supernatural, and a dark atmosphere, typical of Gothic literature.
Mystery — The narrative revolves around unexplained events and the mysterious character of Vanderhausen, creating a sense of intrigue.
Romance — The plot includes a love story between Schalken and Rose, highlighting themes of unrequited love and longing.
Historical Fiction — Set in the past, the story incorporates historical elements related to art and Dutch culture.