The Tractate Middoth by M.R. James
A scholar of the occult discovers a mysterious tractate that holds the key to summoning spirits from another realm. As he delves deeper into its secrets, he becomes increasingly obsessed with unlocking its power, but at a terrible cost to his own sanity and mortality.
By M.R. James · First published 1905 · Genre: Horror, Mystery, Gothic Fiction · 8,468 words
First lines
Towards the end of an autumn afternoon an elderly man with a thin face and grey Piccadilly weepers pushed open the swing-door leading into the vestibule of a certain famous library, and addressing himself to an attendant, stated that he believed he was entitled to use the library, and inquired if he might take a book out. Yes, if he were on the list of those to whom that privilege was given. He produced his card -- Mr. John Eldred -- and, the register being consulted, a favourable answer was given. "Now, another point," said he. "It is a long time since I was here, and I do not know my way about your building; besides, it is near closing-time, and it is bad for me to hurry up and down stairs. I have here the title of the book I want: is there anyone at liberty who could go and find it for me? " After a moment's thought the doorkeeper beckoned to a young man who was passing. "Mr. Garrett," he said, "have you a minute to assist this gentleman? " "With pleasure," was Mr. Garrett's answer. The slip with the title was handed to him. "I think I can put my hand on this; it happens to be in the class I inspected last quarter, but I'll just look it up in the catalogue to make sure. I suppose it is that particular edition that you require, sir? " "Yes, if you please; that, and no other," said Mr. Eldred; "I am exceedingly obliged to you. " "Don't mention it I beg, sir," said Mr. Garrett, and hurried off.
What this Textopian page supports
The Tractate Middoth is listed on Textopian as a short story by M.R. James, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: M.R. James
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Horror, Mystery, Gothic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Supernatural Fiction
- Length: 8,468 words
- Structure: 1 section, 98 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Tractate Middoth by M.R. James
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Tractate Middoth?
- How does this short story by M.R. James fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Horror first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Diary Of Mr Poynter by M. R. James
- A View From A Hill by M. R. James
- The Thing In The Hall by E. F. Benson
- The Haunted Dolls House by M. R. James
- Number 13 by M. R. James
- Oh Whistle And Ill Come To You My Lad by M. R. James
Genres
- Horror — The story contains supernatural elements, unsettling imagery, and a sense of dread, typical of horror literature.
- Mystery — The plot revolves around the search for a missing book and the unraveling of a mystery related to a will, engaging the reader in a puzzle.
- Gothic Fiction — The setting in a library, themes of death, and the presence of a mysterious old man contribute to a gothic atmosphere.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative style is reflective and character-driven, focusing on the psychological aspects of the characters.
Tags
Supernatural Fiction · Ghost Story · Horror · Mystery · Occultism · Paranormal · Surrealism · Atmospheric Setting · Isolated Location · Small Town · English Countryside · Victorian Era