The Turn of the Screw by Henry James is a classic ghost story that continues to captivate readers over a century after its initial publication. Set in the late 19th century, the novella follows a young governess who is hired to care for two young children, Flora and Miles, at the remote and eerie Bly Manor. As the governess begins her duties, she becomes increasingly convinced that the manor is haunted by the spirits of the previous governess, Miss Jessel, and her lover, Peter Quint, who both died under mysterious circumstances. The story unfolds as the governess tries to protect the children from the malevolent ghosts, while also questioning her own sanity and the motives of the children in their interactions with the spirits. One of the most intriguing aspects of The Turn of the Screw is its unreliable narrator. The story is told through the perspective of the governess, whose mental state and perceptions of events are constantly called into question. This creates a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty, leaving readers to question whether the ghosts are real or just figments of the governess's imagination. James masterfully plays with the theme of perception and reality, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions about the events at Bly Manor. Another striking element of the novella is its use of Gothic elements. The isolated location, the decaying mansion, and the presence of ghosts all contribute to the eerie atmosphere of the story. James also incorporates psychological horror, as the governess's fears and paranoia intensify throughout the story, building tension and suspense. The Turn of the Screw is a prime example of Gothic literature, with its exploration of the dark side of human nature and the blurred lines between the living and the dead. One of the most controversial aspects of the novella is its ambiguous ending. The governess's final confrontation with the ghosts and the fate of the children are left open to interpretation, inviting readers to ponder the true meaning of the story. Some critics argue that the ghosts are a product of the governess's overactive imagination, while others believe that they are real and that the children are in danger. This open-ended conclusion has sparked countless debates and interpretations, making The Turn of the Screw a thought-provoking and enduring piece of literature. In addition to its literary merits, The Turn of the Screw also offers insight into the societal norms and expectations of the time period in which it was written. James explores themes of gender roles and class distinctions through the character of the governess, who is expected to be subservient and obedient to her male employer and to maintain the social hierarchy between herself and the children. The story also touches on the taboo subject of sexual relationships, particularly in regards to the ghosts and their influence on the children. Ultimately, The Turn of the Screw is a haunting and enigmatic work that continues to captivate readers with its complex characters, Gothic atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes. It is a testament to Henry James's mastery of storytelling and his ability to create a sense of unease and suspense that lingers long after the final page. A must-read for anyone interested in Gothic literature, psychological thrillers, or the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural.

Text of the famous horror tale with analysis and controversy.

A literary historian develops a scheme to gain possession of love letters written by an American poet, and a governess tries to protect the two young children in her care from the ghosts she believes are haunting them.

By turns chilling, funny, tragic, and profound, this collection of six Henry James short novels allows readers to experience the full range of his skills and vision. The title story, “The Turn of the Screw,” is a chilling masterpiece of psychological terror that mixes the phantoms of the mind with those of the supernatural. “Daisy Miller,” the tale of a provincial American girl in Rome that established James’s literary reputation, and “An International Episode” are superb examples of his focus on the clash between American and European values. And in “The Aspern Papers,” “The Alter of the Dead,” and “The Beast in the Jungle,” the author’s remarkable sense of irony, his love of plot twists, and his view of male-female relationships find exquisite expression. With an Introduction by Fred Kaplan

"The Turn of the Screw" is the classic ghost story for which James is most remembered. Set in a country house, it is a chilling tale of the supernatural. "The Aspern Papers" is a tale of Americans in Europe, cleverly evoking the drama of comedie humaine against the settings of a Venetian palace.

The Turn of the Screw tells the story of a young governess sent to a country house to take charge of two orphans. Unsettled by a sense of intense evil in the house she soon becomes obsessed with the idea that something malevolent is stalking the children in her care. Meanwhile The Aspern Papers explores obsession of a more worldly kind, with its tale of a literary historian determined to get his hands on some letters written by a great poet. Such is his drive, he is quite prepared to use trickery and deception to achieve his aims...

Delve into the captivating world of Henry James with "The Aspern Papers and The Turn of the Screw," skillfully curated by Anthony Curtis. Explore the depths of human psychology and the mysteries of the human heart through James's timeless tales of love, obsession, and the supernatural. As you journey through the pages of this masterfully edited collection, experience the intricate plots and rich characterizations that have made James a literary icon. From the haunting allure of Venice in "The Aspern Papers" to the eerie atmosphere of a remote English estate in "The Turn of the Screw," each story transports you to a realm where reality blurs with the uncanny. But here's the twist that will keep you on the edge of your seat: What secrets lie hidden within the pages of James's enigmatic narratives? And what truths do they reveal about the darker aspects of human nature? Uncover the hidden depths of James's prose as you navigate the twists and turns of these timeless tales. Anthony Curtis's expert curation brings fresh insights to James's work, offering readers a deeper understanding of the author's literary genius. Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of the human psyche with "The Aspern Papers and The Turn of the Screw" by Henry James? Immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of James's prose, where every word is imbued with suspense and intrigue. As you turn the pages, prepare to be spellbound by the psychological complexity and narrative brilliance that define James's storytelling. Now is your chance to experience two literary classics in one compelling volume. Join Anthony Curtis on a journey into the heart of Henry James's imagination and discover why his stories continue to captivate readers around the world. Dive into the depths of Henry James's literary legacy. Order your copy of "The Aspern Papers and The Turn of the Screw" today and let the magic of James's storytelling transport you to a world where reality and illusion intertwine.

TEN BOOKS IN ONE! A one, beautifully laid-out volume, ten of Henry James's most beloved and influential novellas. Included in this collection are: The Turn of the Screw (1898) Daisy Miller (1878) The Beast In The Jungle (1903) The Pupil (1891) The Aspern Papers (1888) The Figure In The Carpet (1896) The Lesson of the Master (1888) The Death of the Lion (1894) The Real Thing (1892) The Altar of the Dead (1895)