Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2: More Ghost Stories

“Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2: More Ghost Stories”

is a collection of supernatural tales by M.R. James, first published in 1911. The stories in this collection continue the tradition of James’ previous work, “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary,” with tales that are chilling, atmospheric, and steeped in history.

The collection features ten stories in total, with each one exploring different themes and settings. From a haunted house in the English countryside to a cursed book in a small town library, each story is crafted with precision and attention to detail. James‘ writing is known for its slow build-up and creeping sense of unease, and this collection is no exception.

One of the strengths of “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2” is James’ use of historical settings and artifacts. James was a respected scholar of medieval history, and his expertise is evident in many of the stories in this collection. From a cursed relic in a monastery to a sinister painting in a museum, James weaves history and the supernatural together in a way that is both compelling and unsettling.

Another notable aspect of the collection is James’ use of atmosphere. The stories are set in dark, moody settings, with each one carefully crafted to evoke a sense of foreboding and unease. James’ descriptions of the landscapes and buildings are haunting, and his use of language is masterful in creating a sense of dread and tension.

While the stories in “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2” are all connected by their supernatural elements, they also explore broader themes such as guilt, obsession, and the human psyche. In “A View from a Hill,” for example, the protagonist’s obsession with the past leads him down a dark path, while in “The Treasure of Abbot Thomas,” greed and ambition lead to a horrifying discovery.

Overall, “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2: More Ghost Stories” is a must-read for fans of supernatural fiction. James’ writing is elegant and sophisticated, and his ability to blend history, atmosphere, and the supernatural is unparalleled. With its richly-drawn characters, haunting settings, and expertly-crafted suspense, this collection is a masterpiece of the horror genre.

While some readers may find the slow build-up and understated horror of James’ writing to be less immediately gratifying than more modern horror stories, there is no denying the power and lasting impact of his work. “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary Part 2” is a timeless collection of stories that continues to captivate readers more than a century after its initial publication. Whether read for the first time or revisited as a classic of the genre, this collection is sure to send shivers down the spine of even the most jaded horror fan.