The Turn of the Screw

by Henry James
List(s):"Racine Library List"
"Carp 500"
Category: "Fiction - Mystery"
Pages:103
Year of Publication:1897
Date Read:03/06/1993
Notes:In a lonely English manor house, an inexperienced governess realizes that her young charges have fallen under the influence of two malevolent ghosts. Her battle for the children’s souls is one of the most blood-curdling scenes in English literature.

COMMENTS — The Turn of the Screw inspired critical debate over the question of the “reality” of the ghosts. James himself called the tale a “fable” and said that he did not specify details of the ghosts’ evil deeds because he wanted readers to supply their own vision of terror.
My Rating: 7

Reviews for The Turn of the Screw

Review - Turn of the Screw, The

James' writing is at times so obtuse as to be undecipherable, and he leaves the reader with a lot to figure out for himself. Others can spend their time analyzing what the story "really meant" if they wish. I ponder for a few moments, then get on with my life.

Reviewed by Roger on 2003-07-21 08:38:13

Back to the list