Who / What
"The Turn of the Screw" is an 1898 gothic horror novella written by Henry James. It is a literary work that follows a governess caring for two children at a remote country house who becomes convinced the children are haunted by supernatural entities. The story is presented as a ghost story within a framing narrative.
Background & History
The novella first appeared in serial format in Collier's Weekly magazine, running from January 27 to April 16, 1898. Later that same year, on October 7, 1898, it was collected and published in the book "The Two Magics" by Macmillan in New York City and Heinemann in London. This publication came during the late Victorian period when Gothic literature and ghost stories were particularly popular.
Why Notable
"The Turn of the Screw" is considered a classic of Gothic horror literature and has become one of Henry James's most famous and widely studied works. The novella is notable for its psychological complexity and ambiguous narrative, leaving readers to debate whether the supernatural events are real or products of the governess's imagination. It has inspired numerous adaptations in film, television, opera, and theater, and continues to be a subject of academic criticism and analysis.
In the News
While originally published in 1898, "The Turn of the Screw" maintains relevance through continued academic study and new adaptations. Recent theatrical productions and film interpretations keep the work in contemporary cultural discussions. The novella's psychological themes continue to resonate with modern audiences exploring Gothic and horror genres.
