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In a Glass Darkly, v. 3/3 Book by Sheridan Le Fanu

eBooks ShelfJanuary 30, 2023June 7, 2023

In a

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In a Glass Darkly, v. 3/3

In a Glass Darkly

is a collection of short stories by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, originally published in 1872. The book contains five stories, all of which are narrated by different characters who are medical practitioners. The stories are all linked by the fact that they involve mysterious and supernatural occurrences, and the narrators must use their medical knowledge to try to solve the mysteries.

Volume three of the book contains the final two stories in the collection. The first story is called “The Room in the Dragon Volant,” and it is narrated by a young Englishman named Richard Beckett. Beckett travels to France and becomes embroiled in a dangerous situation involving a beautiful but enigmatic French woman named Madame de la Rougierre. Beckett is initially charmed by Madame de la Rougierre’s beauty and sophistication, but he soon begins to suspect that there is something sinister about her. He discovers that she is involved in a secret society, and he must use his wits to extricate himself from the dangerous situation.

The second story in volume three is called “Carmilla,” and it is the most famous of the stories in the collection. It is narrated by a young Englishman named Laura, who lives with her father in a remote castle in Styria. Laura becomes friends with a mysterious and alluring young woman named Carmilla, who appears to be around the same age as Laura. Laura is initially fascinated by Carmilla’s exotic and enigmatic personality, but as time goes on, she begins to suspect that there is something sinister about her new friend. She has strange dreams and visions, and she starts to believe that Carmilla is not what she seems. Eventually, Laura uncovers the truth about Carmilla, and the story takes a shocking and terrifying turn.

Le Fanu’s writing style is characterized by his use of intricate, multi-layered plots and his ability to create a sense of unease and foreboding. His stories are often described as Gothic or Victorian horror, and they have influenced many other writers in the horror genre. “Carmilla” in particular has been noted for its influence on the vampire genre, and it is considered a pioneering work of vampire fiction.

In conclusion, In a Glass Darkly is a classic collection of supernatural tales that has stood the test of time. The stories are expertly crafted and full of suspense and intrigue, and they have influenced countless writers in the horror genre. Volume three contains two of the most memorable stories in the collection, and they are a must-read for anyone interested in Gothic or Victorian horror.

Carmilla” is a chilling tale about a young woman named Laura who lives in a remote castle in Styria with her father. When a carriage crashes near the castle, Laura and her father take in the injured passenger, a young woman named Carmilla. Laura and Carmilla become fast friends, but strange things begin to happen. Laura becomes weak and ill, and Carmilla’s behavior becomes increasingly bizarre. As Laura investigates the mystery surrounding Carmilla, she discovers that her friend is not what she seems.

Le Fanu’s “Carmilla” is often cited as one of the earliest examples of a vampire story, predating Bram Stoker’s Dracula by several decades. The story is notable for its depiction of a female vampire, and for the subtle and suggestive relationship between Laura and Carmilla.

“The Conclusion of the Ingot of Gold” is a shorter, lighter story that follows the adventures of the eccentric Mr. Gervase Brabazon, who finds himself in possession of a valuable ingot of gold. Brabazon’s attempts to sell the ingot are complicated by a series of mishaps and misunderstandings, leading to a humorous and satisfying conclusion.

Le Fanu’s writing is characterized by his ability to create a haunting atmosphere and a sense of unease, often through the use of vivid and atmospheric descriptions of setting and character. In “Carmilla,” he uses the isolated castle and the dark forest surrounding it to create a sense of foreboding, while in “The Conclusion of the Ingot of Gold,” he creates a light and humorous tone through his portrayal of the quirky characters and their antics.

In addition to its literary merit, In a Glass Darkly has had a lasting cultural impact. “Carmilla” in particular has been adapted numerous times for stage, film, and television, and has been cited as an influence on later vampire stories such as Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire.

In summary, the third volume of In a Glass Darkly contains two masterfully crafted short stories that showcase Le Fanu’s ability to create an atmosphere of unease and tension, as well as his talent for lighter and more humorous storytelling. “Carmilla” is a seminal work of gothic horror that continues to inspire and influence writers to this day, while “The Conclusion of the Ingot of Gold” is a charming and entertaining tale that demonstrates Le Fanu’s versatility as a writer.

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