Plot Summary
"The Turning of the Screw" is a story within a story, told by an unnamed narrator who listens to a ghost story recounted by a man named Douglas. The story Douglas tells is about a governess who is hired to take care of two young orphans, Miles and Flora, at a remote country estate in England. As the governess begins her duties, strange things start happening. She sees apparitions of a man and a woman whom she later learns are the former valet and governess of the children who died under mysterious circumstances. The governess believes that the children can also see the ghosts but are keeping quiet about it. The governess becomes increasingly paranoid and protective of the children, convinced that the ghosts are trying to possess them. She also develops an unhealthy attachment to Miles, who is expelled from school for unknown reasons. The story reaches its climax when the governess confronts Miles about his behavior and sees the ghost of Peter Quint, the former valet, watching them.Themes
One of the main themes of "The Turning of the Screw" is the ambiguity between reality and imagination. The governess's mental state is called into question, and the reader is left wondering whether the ghosts are real or just a product of her imagination. Another theme is the corruption of innocence, as the ghosts seem to be trying to possess the children and turn them into their own image. The novella also explores the theme of class and social status, as the governess, who comes from a lower class than her employers, is trying to fit into a world that is not her own. The theme of gender roles is also present, as the governess is expected to be subservient to her male employers but instead takes on a more active role in protecting the children.Characters
The main character of "The Turning of the Screw" is the governess, who is both the narrator and the protagonist. She is a young, inexperienced woman who is thrust into a situation beyond her control. Her motivations and mental state are ambiguous, making her a complex and intriguing character. The children, Miles and Flora, are also central to the story. They are innocent and naive, but also mysterious and potentially dangerous. The ghosts, Peter Quint and Miss Jessel, are menacing and foreboding, but their motivations are never fully explained.Download "The Turning of the Screw" PDF
If you're interested in reading "The Turning of the Screw" for yourself, you can download the PDF version of the book by clicking the link below. This haunting story is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you questioning what is real and what is imagined.Book Details
| Author: | Henry James |
| Published: | 1898 |
| Pages: | 122 |
| Genre: | Gothic fiction |
FAQ
- Is "The Turning of the Screw" a scary book?
- Is the PDF version of the book free?
- Is "The Turning of the Screw" appropriate for children?
Yes, it is a haunting and suspenseful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
We cannot disclose the price of the book, but the PDF version is available for download.
The book contains mature themes and is not recommended for young children.
Reference
James, Henry. "The Turning of the Screw." Dover Publications, 1991.
Thank you for reading our book review of "The Turning of the Screw" PDF. We hope you enjoy this haunting tale and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
