In a Glass Darkly
Author: Sheridan Le Fanu
Synopsis:
Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (1814-1873) is recognized as one of the foremost writers of Victorian mystery and horror, often considered the pioneer of the modern ghost story. In a Glass Darkly (1872), one of his most acclaimed collections, is presented as the casebook of Dr. Hesselius, an early practitioner of psychology.
This anthology of five stories showcases some of Le Fanu’s finest work, which transcends the conventional Gothic norms of his time. Although it incorporates elements like ghosts and vampires, Le Fanu’s approach to supernatural fiction was unique. Instead of simply aiming to frighten readers, he explored the psychological impact of supernatural experiences on his characters, paving the way for later writers such as Henry James and M. R. James.
In a Glass Darkly remains an essential work in the horror genre, distinguished by its profound psychological insight and its lasting influence on the evolution of ghost stories and horror fiction.