The Monk

The narrative centers on Abbot Ambrosio, whose descent into depravity is ignited by a disguised girl in his monastery. As he succumbs to temptation, the story unfolds with themes of incest, murder, and torture, showcasing a cast of haunting figures, including the Bleeding Nun and Lucifer. The novel's shocking content led to significant controversy, reflecting the moral anxieties of its time and establishing it as a pivotal work in Gothic literature.