Turn of the Screw

Henry James' The Turn of the Screw (1898) is a psychological novella that explores the depths of human nature and the supernatural. The story follows a governess who is tasked with caring for two children in a remote country home, where she begins to suspect that the children are being corrupted by evil spirits. The novella's themes of innocence, corruption, and the supernatural have made it one of the most debated and influential works of literature in history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 116 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Mint Editions

James is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent individuals of his generation, a testament to his profound intellect and remarkable achievements.

T.S. Eliot's observation that the economy of horror reaches its ultimate culmination in Edith Wharton's work is a profound insight into the genre's psychological depth.

The Independent's assessment of Henry James's The Turn of the Screw (1898) as the most hopelessly evil story in literature highlights its gripping nature and its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from madness to the supernatural.

The Turn of the Screw is a haunting psychological novella that has captivated readers for generations. Its intricate narrative, exploring the boundaries between the seen and unseen, the internal and external, and good and evil, elevates it beyond the realm of a simple ghost story.

The story begins on Christmas Eve with the recital of a letter, setting the stage for the unfolding events. The narrative then shifts to the perspective of a governess, who is tasked with caring for a niece and nephew in a remote country home. To her surprise, she is instructed not to have any contact with the uncle of the children, adding an enigmatic layer to the narrative.

The governess is immediately captivated by Flora, the young girl, but she receives a distressing letter informing her that Miles, the boy, has been expelled from his school and will not be able to return. This unexpected development further intensifies the governess's sense of unease and intrigue.

One evening, while taking a stroll outside, the governess is startled to encounter a man in the tower of the house. Her shock escalates when she later spots him in a window, confirming her suspicions that he is a former valet who had passed away. She confides in Mrs. Grouse, the maid, who informs her that the description matches that of the deceased valet.

As the ghosts gradually take possession of the house, the governess's fear and obsession with the corruption of the children by these terrifying spirits intensify. The governess becomes consumed by her fears, questioning her own sanity and the true nature of the spirits that haunt her.

The Turn of the Screw is a masterfully crafted work that leaves readers pondering the depths of human psychology, the nature of good and evil, and the power of the supernatural. Its enduring popularity and the ongoing literary debates surrounding it testify to its lasting impact on the world of literature.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 203 x 127 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513279763