LEWIS, M.G. The Monk: A Romance.

(London): Privately printed, no date (c.1890).  Unabridged reprinted of the first edition.  Octavo.  Two volumes.  295 and 302 pages.  A publication of this classic gothic novel prepared in an edition of 300 numbered copies for collectors.  Originally published in 1796 at the height of the craze stimulated by publication of Ann Radcliffe’s Mysteries of Uldolpho, this work is more sensational relying on horror rather than terror.  The theme of the story is sexual repression at the heart of ascetism, with a monk renowned for his religious devotion being tempted by a girl who enters a monastry disguised as a boy.  Although the novel was considered both ridiculous and indecent it enjoyed great popularity.  The copies here, in very good condition bound in brown cloth backed boards, with gilt lettering to the spine.  Some wear to base of spines.