Considered to be one of the very first Gothic novels, The Monk caused quite a stir upon its publication in 1796. It was not received well by critics for its lack of moral instruction and indecent nature. "Lust, murder, incest, and every atrocity that can disgrace human nature, brought together, without the apology of probability, or even possibility, for their introduction." This review from The British Critic seems to say it all, without mentioning how thrilling the combination of all those things can actually be; however, the public soon proved to Lewis and critics alike how much horror they really could digest.
Matthew Lewis wrote the novel in ten weeks after becoming increasingly bored with his work as a Member of Parliament at a time when the Gothic novel was not highly respected. Initially, it was published anonymously, but after all the controversy, he couldn't help but reveal himself and delve into the critics' disgust.
The Monk stands the test of time as being a truly horrific piece of work, with unexpected twists and turns, Satanic temptations, tragic murders, and an ending of epic proportions.
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